Funchal: Monte Tropical Garden & Toboggan Ride by Tuk Tuk

Funchal’s Monte Tropical Garden and Toboggan Ride offer a unique blend of natural beauty and thrilling adventure. This private tour guides visitors through the historic Old Town before immersing them in the lush greenery of the Monte Palace gardens. With a knowledgeable local driver providing insightful commentary, guests can unwind and soak up the serene atmosphere. But the real excitement awaits as they have the option to experience the iconic Monte Toboggan Ride, a traditional mode of transportation that promises an unforgettable adrenaline-fueled descent. Whether seeking tranquility or a touch of excitement, this tour promises an enriching experience that captures the essence of Madeira’s captivating charm.

Key Points

• This private group tour explores Funchal’s Old Town and the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, with an optional thrilling Monte Toboggan Ride.
• The 3-hour tour is conducted in English, with pickup from hotel or cruise ship and a knowledgeable local driver/guide providing commentary.
• Visitors can admire the historic architecture, cobbled streets, and traditional Madeiran tile work in Funchal’s Old Town.
• The Monte Palace Tropical Garden offers a serene escape, showcasing thousands of exotic plant species across 70 acres with panoramic ocean views.
• The optional Monte Toboggan Ride provides a thrilling 2-kilometer descent at speeds up to 48 km/h, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Details

This is a private group tour with a duration of 3 hours, and the language used is English.

Pickup from the hotel or cruise ship is included.

The tour will take you on a guided exploration of Funchal’s Old Town and the stunning Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

You’ll also have the chance to experience the thrilling Monte Toboggan Ride, though this comes at an additional fee.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive with commentary from your local driver/guide.

A blanket is provided to keep you comfortable during the journey.

Just remember to dress appropriately for the weather and leave your large bags and baby strollers at home.

Itinerary Highlights

The guided tour of Funchal’s Old Town kicks off the experience, immersing visitors in the historic charm of the city.

Next, they’ll marvel at the lush flora of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the optional Monte Toboggan Ride provides a thrilling downhill journey.

Throughout the tour, the local driver/guide offers insightful commentary, enhancing the scenic drive.

Highlights include the picturesque streets of the Old Town, the verdant oasis of the Tropical Garden, and the exhilarating Toboggan Ride, offering a unique perspective of Funchal’s natural beauty and rich heritage.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off within Funchal, along with a local driver/guide who provides commentary throughout the scenic drive. A blanket is also provided for comfort during the experience.

Inclusions	Details
Transportation	Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or cruise ship
Guide	Knowledgeable local driver/guide provides commentary
Comfort	Blanket provided for your convenience

The inclusions ensure a hassle-free and comfortable experience as you explore the highlights of Funchal, including the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and the thrilling Monte Toboggan Ride.

Exclusions

While the tour package includes several amenities, the entry tickets for the Monte Palace Tropical Garden (€15 per person) and the Monte Toboggan Ride (€35 for 2 people) aren’t covered in the cost.

Visitors will need to purchase these tickets separately if they wish to explore the lush gardens or take the thrilling toboggan ride down the streets of Monte.

Plus, the tour doesn’t include any food or drinks, so you will need to budget for these expenses as well.

It’s important to note that the activity isn’t suitable for children under 3, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, so these groups should consider alternative options.

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Important Information

Before embarking on this tour, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for certain groups. Specifically, the activity is not recommended for children under 3 years old, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users. Plus, large bags and baby strollers are not allowed on the tour. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather conditions to ensure a comfortable experience.

Suitability	Allowed	Prohibited
Children under 3	Weather-appropriate clothing	Large bags
Mobility issues		Baby strollers
Wheelchair users

Funchal Old Town Tour

The guided tour of Funchal Old Town provides visitors with a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and charming architecture.

As part of the Funchal experience, guests will explore the narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings that characterize this historic district. The tour guide will share stories about the town’s past, pointing out notable landmarks like the 15th-century Sé Cathedral and the vibrant Farmers’ Market.

Visitors will wander through quaint plazas, admiring the traditional Madeiran tile work and exploring the unique shops and cafes that line the streets.

This immersive walking tour offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the authentic heart of Funchal and gain a deeper appreciation for the local culture.

Monte Palace Tropical Garden

After exploring the charming Funchal Old Town, visitors can venture to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a lush oasis perched atop the hills overlooking the city. This 70-acre garden showcases an impressive collection of exotic plants and flowers from all over the world. Visitors can stroll through the well-maintained pathways, admiring the tranquil ponds, waterfalls, and variety of plant life.

Feature	Description
Diversity	Thousands of plant species from 5 continents
Highlights	Orchid collection, Japanese gardens, and sculptures
Views	Panoramic vistas of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean
Facilities	Café, gift shop, and restrooms on-site

The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a true highlight of any visit to Madeira, offering a serene escape and a chance to take in the island’s natural beauty.

Monte Toboggan Ride

Upon completing their tour of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, visitors can opt to experience the thrilling Monte Toboggan Ride, a unique and historic mode of transportation down the steep hills of Funchal.

The toboggan ride is an extra activity that costs €35 for two people. Riders will sit in a two-person wicker toboggan and glide down a 2-kilometer stretch of road, reaching speeds of up to 48 km/h.

The ride offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s an exciting way to cap off the day’s activities, but it’s not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues.

Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens?

The information provided does not mention any discounts for senior citizens. Tour pricing and policies may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator directly for any available senior discounts or other pricing options.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour does not include a lunch stop. However, participants are free to request a lunch break and pay for their own meal at their own expense during the tour. Advance notice would be appreciated to accommodate the schedule.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration cannot be extended. The activity details specify the tour is 3 hours long, and there’s no mention of the ability to add more time. The tour has a fixed itinerary and schedule.

Do We Need to Book the Toboggan Ride in Advance?

The toboggan ride at the Monte Palace Tropical Garden is an optional add-on that doesn’t need to be booked in advance. Visitors can purchase tickets on-site during the tour for €35 per two people.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tropical Garden Visit?

There is no formal dress code for visiting the tropical garden. However, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing as the garden may involve walking on uneven terrain. Avoid wearing heavy or restrictive items that could hinder mobility.

Recap

This private Funchal tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s historic Old Town and the lush Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

Guests can enjoy Madeiran culture, admire the stunning architecture, and enjoy the thrilling Monte Toboggan Ride.

With a knowledgeable local driver, comfortable transportation, and an informative commentary, this experience offers a memorable way to discover Funchal’s top attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby