Private: Maderia Island Tour & Famous Monte Toboggan Ride

Exploring Madeira with the Private Maderia Island Tour & Monte Toboggan Ride

If you’re considering a half-day adventure around Funchal, Portugal, this private tour offers a solid way to see some of Madeira’s most photogenic spots. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the itinerary, it seems like a balanced mix of scenic viewpoints, local charm, and a dash of thrill with the famous Monte Toboggan Ride.

What we like about this experience is its personalized nature—being private means more flexibility and a guide who can tailor the day a bit. Also, the stops are well-chosen; you get to see stunning vistas, a quaint fishing village, and one of the highest sea cliffs in the world. On the downside, the price might seem steep for some, especially considering extras like the Toboggan Ride aren’t included in the main fee.

This tour will suit travelers who want a quick yet rundown of Madeira’s highlights without the fuss of large group tours. It’s especially good if you value having a guide’s insights and prefer a more intimate experience. If your time is limited but you want to tick off several must-see sights, this tour could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private setup ensures a tailored day with a driver/guide.
• Spectacular Views: Highlights include Pico dos Barcelos and Cabo Girao, two of themost stunning viewpoints in Madeira.
• Cultural Charm: The visit to Camara de Lobos offers a taste of local life and traditional drinks.
• Unique Ride: The Monte Toboggan Ride is a fun, historic way to end the day, with speeds reaching up to 30 mph.
• Value for Money?: While the core tour is around $191, the Toboggan Ride costs extra, and some reviews suggest it’s pricey compared to the experience.
• Flexibility and Comfort: Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise port make the day hassle-free.

A Deep Dive into the Madeira Highlights

This tour kicks off with a visit to Pico dos Barcelos, perched 355 meters above sea level. It’s a prime spot for panoramic photos and breathtaking vistas over Funchal. The view here is often described as a must-see, and it’s easy to see why—the sweeping landscape makes for a perfect start.

Next, you’ll head to Eira Do Serrado, which is a dramatic rock ledge overlooking Curral das Freiras, a strikingly shaped valley. Travelers often mention the “serrated peaks” and the “horse-shoe” shaped valley as highlights. It’s an excellent vantage point to appreciate Madeira’s rugged terrain, and the sheer cliffs make it feel like you’re on the edge of the world.

From there, your guide takes you to Camara de Lobos, a charming fishing village with a storied past. Named after monk seals that once visited the area, it’s a lively little spot with whitewashed houses and local eateries. You’ll get a chance to sample Poncha, a traditional local drink, which many reviews mention as a lovely way to cap off the visit. It’s a good break from the more scenic stops, offering authentic local color.

Cabo Girao is next—one of the highest sea cliffs in the world. Standing at the miradouro (viewpoint), you can gaze down at the swirling ocean and rugged coast below. The air is often described as fragrant with pine and eucalyptus, making it a peaceful spot that feels almost untouched. You get a sense of Madeira’s spectacular natural features here.

Finally, the Monte Toboggan Ride is the highlight for many. Dating back to the 1850s, this wicker toboggan was once a practical way to descend from the mountain into Funchal. Today, it’s a fun tradition, with two “Carreiros” guiding you downhill at up to 30 mph. The ride lasts about 10 minutes and offers a rush of adrenaline while allowing you to enjoy the scenic route—just be prepared for a bit of a thrill if you dislike high speeds or curvy roads.

What the Reviews Say

Among the 29 reviews, the majority seem satisfied, giving an average of 4.2/5. For instance, one reviewer praised guide Michael for sharing lots of factual info and managing the narrow streets safely, highlighting the tour’s personal touch and professional guidance. However, not all reviews are glowing—some mention the cost of the Toboggan Ride as being steep, especially since it’s an extra at $35 per couple.

A review from someone who didn’t get to do the ride because it was sold out to cruise ship passengers shows that availability can sometimes be an issue. The guide’s friendliness and knowledge are often appreciated, but occasional language barriers have been noted, which might matter if you prefer very clear explanations.

One reviewer felt the overall value was a bit high for what was included, citing the cost of the ride as a significant extra. That said, many still found the trip worthwhile for the views and the convenience of a private guide.

Logistics and Practicalities

This tour runs from 9:30 am and lasts approximately 4.5 hours, fitting nicely into a morning or early afternoon slot. Pickup and drop-off are included, whether you’re staying at a hotel or docked at a cruise port, which simplifies logistics.

Being a private tour, only your group participates, which means less rushing and more flexibility. The tour includes all taxes and fees but does not cover food, drinks, or the Toboggan Ride, which costs an additional $35 per couple.

The minimum age is 3, so it’s suitable for families with young children, although the lively nature of the Toboggan Ride might be more suitable for older kids or adults.

How Does It Stack Up in Value?

The core price of around $191 per person covers transportation, guiding, and the scenic stops. For that, you get personalized attention, exclusive access to viewpoints, and the chance to explore places off the main tourist trail. But, keep in mind that the Monte Toboggan Ride, a major highlight, is an additional cost, which might make the overall experience more expensive than some prefer.

Considering the price and what’s included, this tour offers good value for those wanting a curated, scenic, and culturally rich half-day. If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, flexibility, and local insights, it’s probably worth it. However, if you’re budget-conscious or not interested in the Toboggan Ride, you might want to consider other options or skip the extras.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Madeira tour is perfect for travelers who want an intimate experience with a guide who can share insights and adapt the day to their interests. It’s suitable for those who enjoy spectacular vistas, charming villages, and a bit of adventure—especially the fun Monte Toboggan Ride.

It’s also a good choice if you’re pressed for time but want to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort. Families with older kids or teenagers who enjoy a bit of thrill might find this especially appealing, though younger children might be less enthused by the speed of the Toboggan.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise ship, making it convenient to start and end the day without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, covering multiple scenic stops and the Toboggan Ride.

Can I participate with young children?
Most travelers can participate, with a minimum age of 3 years. Keep in mind that the Toboggan Ride might be more suitable for older kids or adults who enjoy a thrill.

How much does the Monte Toboggan Ride cost?
It’s an additional $35 per couple, and it’s not included in the main tour price.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect stunning viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Cabo Girao, a charming fishing village, and the fun downhill Monte Toboggan Ride.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since it involves some walking at viewpoints and a downhill ride, it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
According to reviews, guides are friendly and provide factual info, making the experience informative and engaging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In the end, if you’re after a guided, scenic half-day around Madeira that includes a bit of local flavor and some fun, this private tour offers a flexible and mostly enjoyable way to see the highlights. Just remember to budget for the Toboggan Ride if you want to experience that signature Madeira thrill!