Madeira’s Monte Sightseeing Tour & Toboggan Sled Ride offers an exhilarating blend of history, culture, and adventure. Visitors can explore the charming 18th-century Church of Monte, admire panoramic views of Funchal, and experience the adrenaline-fueled descent on a traditional wicker toboggan sled. Guided by experienced ‘sledge drivers,’ thrill-seekers can reach speeds of up to 30 mph as they glide through the historic city streets, passing iconic landmarks. This tour provides an unforgettable experience that combines the best of Madeira’s rich heritage and natural beauty. But what sets this adventure apart from the rest?
Key Points
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Explore the picturesque Monte area on a 3-hour sightseeing tour, including a visit to the charming 18th-century Church of Monte with stunning architecture and panoramic views.
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Experience the thrilling traditional toboggan sled ride, gliding down the steep streets of Monte at speeds up to 30 mph, guided by experienced ‘sledge drivers’.
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Enjoy convenient hotel/cruise ship pickup and drop-off service, with the tour meeting at the Funchal Cruise Ship Port for easy access.
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The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and the largest toboggan sled requires at least 3 passengers, with children needing to be accompanied by an adult.
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The tour may not operate in rainy weather, so it’s important to check the weather and follow all safety instructions during the adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Tour Overview

This 3-hour tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque Monte area and experience the thrill of a traditional toboggan sled ride.
Guests will be picked up from their hotel or cruise ship port and whisked away to the charming church of Monte, where they can admire the stunning architecture and take in the panoramic views.
The highlight of the tour is the thrilling toboggan sled ride, a quintessential Madeira experience. Gliding down the winding streets at exhilarating speeds, riders will enjoy an unforgettable adventure.
This private group tour offers a personalized experience, with a knowledgeable local guide providing insights and ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Madeira.
Highlights of the Tour

The tour’s highlights include a visit to the charming church of Monte, where guests can admire the stunning architecture and take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors will then enjoy the thrill of a traditional toboggan sled ride, gliding down the winding streets at exhilarating speeds for an unforgettable Madeira experience. This unique toboggan ride offers an adrenaline-fueled adventure, as guests zip through the historic city streets in a wooden sled guided by skilled drivers.
The tour provides an excellent opportunity to take in the local culture and traditions of Madeira, creating lasting memories of this one-of-a-kind excursion.
Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a driver/local guide, hotel/apartment pickup and drop-off, transportation, and the thrilling toboggan sled ride.
While the experience is designed for adventure-seekers, there are a few important exclusions to note:
- The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the toboggan sled ride may pose accessibility challenges.
- The largest sledge requires at least 3 passengers, so solo travelers may need to join a group.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.
The tour may not operate in rainy weather, as the toboggan ride could become unsafe.
Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour meets at the Funchal Cruise Ship Port, specifically at the Gare Marítima do Porto do Funchal.
Guests can expect to be picked up from their hotel or apartment accommodations and transported to this central meeting location to begin the Monte sightseeing and toboggan sled ride experience.
From the meeting point, the group will embark on the 3-hour tour, exploring the picturesque Monte neighborhood and taking an unforgettable ride down the famous toboggan sled track.
The convenient pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for all participants. With the meeting point centrally located, guests can easily access the tour and make the most of their time in Madeira.
More Great Tours NearbyChurch of Monte
Perched atop the Monte hill, the Church of Monte stands as a beloved landmark, drawing visitors with its striking white facade and intricate religious architecture.
This 18th-century church is a must-see for those exploring the Monte area. Highlights include:
- The church’s ornate interior, featuring intricate azulejo tilework, gilded altars, and detailed woodcarvings.
- The panoramic views from the church’s elevated position, offering breathtaking vistas of Funchal and the surrounding mountainous terrain.
- The opportunity to learn about the church’s rich history and its significance within the local community.
- The chance to participate in religious services or simply take a moment of reflection and appreciation for the church’s serene, spiritual ambiance.
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Toboggan Sled Ride
One of the highlights of the Monte Sightseeing Tour is the thrilling toboggan sled ride, an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to glide down the steep streets of Monte at exhilarating speeds.
The traditional wicker toboggan sleds are guided by two experienced ‘sledge drivers’ who skillfully navigate the winding roads, reaching speeds of up to 30 mph.
Riders will feel the rush of the wind as they soar through the historic streets, passing by iconic landmarks like the Church of Monte.
The toboggan ride lasts around 10 minutes and is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Madeira. Just be sure to hold on tight and enjoy the ride of a lifetime!
Adventure and Experience
Embarking on the Monte Sightseeing Tour promises an unforgettable adventure, where visitors can enjoy Madeira’s rich heritage and enjoy an exhilarating toboggan sled ride.
This unique experience offers a thrilling blend of history, culture, and excitement. Visitors can:
- Witness the stunning architectural beauty of the Church of Monte, a significant religious landmark
- Glide down the winding streets in a traditional wicker toboggan, reaching speeds of up to 30 km/h
Visitors can also:
- Admire the breathtaking views of Funchal and the surrounding natural landscape from the top of Monte
- Embrace the local traditions and feel the adrenaline surge as they navigate the toboggan’s twists and turns
This adventure-packed tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience in Madeira.
Operational Considerations

Accessibility and group size are important operational considerations for the Monte Sightseeing Tour & Toboggan Sled Ride. The tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users, and the largest toboggan sled requires at least three passengers to operate.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, ensuring their safety on the thrilling sled ride. Plus, the tour may not run during rainy weather, as the sled ride may be unsafe in those conditions.
It’s essential for guests to follow all safety instructions provided by the local guide to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. By understanding these operational details, travelers can better prepare for and enjoy the Monte Sightseeing Tour & Toboggan Sled Ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Younger Than 6 Years Old Participate?
Yes, children younger than 6 can participate in the tour, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour operator requires all children to have adult supervision for safety reasons.
Is There a Weight or Height Limit for the Sled Ride?
There’s no specific weight or height limit for the toboggan sled ride, but it requires at least 3 passengers per sled. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Passengers should be able to sit comfortably in the sled.
How Long Does the Toboggan Sled Ride Last?
The toboggan sled ride typically lasts around 10-15 minutes. Riders can expect an exhilarating downhill experience as they navigate the winding roads at high speeds. The duration may vary depending on factors like traffic and weather conditions.
Can We Make Stops Along the Way for Photos?
Yes, the tour allows for photo stops along the way. The driver/guide will make brief stops so participants can take pictures of the scenic views and landscapes during the sightseeing portion of the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can request an extended tour to explore more sights or spend additional time at the toboggan sled ride. This flexibility allows for a more customized experience.
Madeira: Monte Sightseeing Tour & Toboggan Sled Ride
Recap
The Monte Sightseeing Tour & Toboggan Sled Ride offers an exhilarating blend of Madeira’s history, culture, and adventure.
Explore the charming Church of Monte, enjoy panoramic city views, then experience the thrill of a traditional wicker toboggan sled descent at speeds up to 30 mph.
This unforgettable experience provides an unmatched opportunity to take in Madeira’s unique heritage and natural wonders.



















