Monte Toboggan Ride in Madeira: Prices, Hours & Tips

The Monte toboggan ride, in short

What is the Monte toboggan ride?

The carros de cesto are two-seat wicker sledges on wooden runners, pushed and steered downhill by two carreiros dressed in white with straw hats and rubber-soled boots. They jog, brake and lean the sledge through the bends using ropes and their feet. It began in the 19th century as a fast way for locals to travel down from the hillside parish of Monte into Funchal, and it survives today as one of the island's signature attractions.

The route, duration and speed

The sledges set off just below the Church of Our Lady of Monte and run about 2 km (1.2 miles) down a steep, winding public road to Livramento, on the edge of Funchal. The descent takes around 10 minutes, reaching speeds of roughly 30 to 45 km/h on the steeper stretches. It is exhilarating but controlled, and the carreiros do this all day, every working day.

Prices and opening hours

• Prices (as of 2026, confirm before you go): about €27.50 for one person, €35 for two, and €52.50 for three, in a sledge.
• Payment: cash, bought on-site on the day. You cannot book the ride online in advance.
• Opening hours: generally Monday to Saturday, about 09:00 to 18:00, with the last ride in the late afternoon, and closed on Sundays and some public holidays.

Because prices and hours change, check the operator (Carreiros do Monte) close to your visit.

How to get to Monte, and back

The easiest way up to the start is the Funchal cable car (teleférico), which climbs from the Old Town up to Monte with fine views over the city and bay. You can also reach Monte by bus or taxi. The toboggan drops you at Livramento, not back at Monte, so to return you take a taxi or bus, or walk down into Funchal. A popular plan is the cable car up, a visit to the Monte gardens, then the toboggan down. See our guide to getting around Madeira.

Is the toboggan ride worth it?

For most visitors, yes, as a one-off: it is unique to Madeira, fun, and part of the island's heritage, and the photos are great. It is short and not cheap for the distance, so treat it as an experience rather than transport. It pairs naturally with the cable car and the Monte gardens for a half-day outing above Funchal.

Is it safe?

The ride is generally considered safe. The carreiros are experienced, control the speed, and the route is a normal road managed for the sledges. As with any downhill activity there is a small risk, so hold on, follow the carreiros' cues, and it is not recommended for anyone who should avoid sudden movements.

Our Cultural Madeira guided group tour includes the Monte toboggan ride along with the island's cultural highlights, with hotels, transfers and guides sorted, and all-in pricing with no surprises.