Private Monte and Taboggan ride Tour

Exploring Madeira’s Monte and Toboggan Ride: A Friendly Guide to This Private Tour

If you’re eyeing a way to explore the picturesque village of Monte without the fuss of navigating on your own, this private Monte and Toboggan ride tour might just be what you’re looking for. From what we’ve seen and heard from travelers, it offers a nicely balanced mix of personalized attention, scenic views, and the fun of a traditional toboggan adventure. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxed, guided experience that lets you soak in the sights without the stress of planning every detail.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the private guide and transportation, which mean you experience Madeira in a tailored way, and the opportunity to learn about Monte’s local culture and history from someone who knows their stuff. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the admission fee for the toboggan ride, which isn’t included in the base price. It’s an extra expense, but many find it worth the fun. If you prefer a flexible, comfortable way to see Monte and enjoy the thrill of the toboggan, this tour could suit a wide range of travelers, especially those who enjoy guided experiences with a local touch.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Personalized attention and flexible itinerary
• Scenic Journey: Enjoy local hills and views over Funchal
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Monte’s history with your guide
• All-Inclusive Transportation: Door-to-door pickup and drop-off
• Cost & Extras: Price includes guide and transport, but not toboggan ticket
• Ideal for: Those wanting a relaxed, private experience with local flavor

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour is designed for small groups — up to three people — making it intimate and customizable. Once booked, you’ll get confirmation within 48 hours, and most bookings are made about two months in advance. The price is around $106.72 per group, which, considering it’s private, covers your guide, driver, and transportation.

You’ll be picked up from your Madeira accommodation if you select that option. This is a big plus because it means you won’t have to worry about finding your way to meet the tour; just relax and enjoy the scenery on the way up. The drive takes you through the lush, hilly terrain of Madeira, building anticipation for your time in Monte.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Stop 1: Paroquia de Nossa Senhora do Monte

Your first stop is the famous 19th-century Church of Our Lady of Monte. This church is a highlight, not only for its history but for its beautiful landscaped gardens and spectacular views overlooking Funchal. Many reviews mention how relaxing it is to stroll here, surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic cityscapes.

A typical visit lasts around 30 minutes, and the admission is free, so you can enjoy the scenery without extra cost. Guides often walk with you, sharing stories about Monte’s history and culture, making this stop both scenic and educational.

The Toboggan Ride

The highlight for many visitors is the traditional toboggan ride down from Monte. It’s a fun, unique experience that has become iconic in Madeira. The ride itself costs about $40 per booking and is paid separately at the ticket office. Many reviews praise how smooth and enjoyable it is, with some mentioning how lucky they were to avoid long queues.

Your guide will walk you to the ticket office, help you get your tickets, and ensure you know where to meet afterward. Travelers have appreciated having a guide handle logistics — one reviewer mentioned how their guide, Margarida, made sure they knew what to do, making the whole process stress-free.

Flexibility and Personalization

What we love about this tour is its flexibility. You can tailor the time spent at each stop, and your guide is there to answer questions and provide insights. It’s not a rigid itinerary, so if you want more time exploring or taking photos, you can.

Transportation and Comfort

The journey up to Monte is comfortably handled by your private driver in a vehicle that suits your group. The drive is scenic, winding through Madeira’s lush hills, and it’s a welcome break from the chaos of public transport or self-driving. Once in Monte, your guide will be with you, walking through the gardens, explaining the history, and making sure you get the most out of your visit.

Weather and Clothing

Madeira’s weather can be unpredictable, so dressing appropriately is advised. Since this tour runs in all weather conditions, check the forecast and bring layers or rain gear if needed. The views are likely to be stunning no matter what, but you’ll want to be comfortable.

What Do Travelers Say?

From the reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides and good value for money are among the biggest positives. One reviewer raved about their guide Joao, who went “above and beyond,” helping with tickets and sharing local insights. Others appreciated the hassle-free experience, with pickup and drop-off included, making it feel more like a personalized day out.

Several reviews also highlighted how much they enjoyed the scenic drive and the opportunity to learn about the local culture. The fact that the tour is private means you can ask questions and go at your own pace, which many travelers find invaluable.

The Price: Is It Worth It?

At just over $106 per group, this private tour offers a good deal for those who want a personalized experience without the crowds. The cost covers transportation, a dedicated guide, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The additional charge for the toboggan ride is reasonable, and many consider it a fun, iconic part of their Madeira adventure.

For travelers who value comfort, local insights, and the ability to customize their day, this price point is fair, especially considering the private nature of the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for couples, small families, or friends traveling together who enjoy guided experiences and local storytelling. It’s perfect if you want to see Monte without the hassle of figuring out logistics yourself. If you’re interested in a relaxed pace, scenic views, and a bit of history, this tour checks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this private Monte and Toboggan ride tour offers a well-rounded experience. It excels in providing personalized attention, scenic beauty, and cultural insights that make your visit special. The guide’s local knowledge shines through, making it more than just a sightseeing trip — it becomes a memorable, engaging experience.

The inclusion of transportation and the flexibility at each stop make it convenient and adaptable to your interests. While the toboggan ride is an additional expense, it’s widely considered a must-do, adding a splash of fun to the day.

If you’re after a relaxed, thoughtfully curated experience that combines local history, scenic views, and a touch of adventure, this tour is likely to satisfy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 3 and above can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The toboggan ride is generally suitable for kids, but always check with the operator if you have specific age or weight considerations.

What is the total duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, not including the time spent at the stops and in transit.

Do I need to book the toboggan ride separately? Yes, the toboggan ride costs about $40 per booking and is paid at the ticket office on the day of your tour.

What should I wear? Dress for all weather conditions, as the tour operates in all weather. Comfortable shoes and layers are advisable, especially if you plan to explore the gardens and walk around Monte.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since it’s a private tour, your guide will be happy to accommodate your interests and adjust timing to some extent.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, if you choose the pickup option, your driver will collect you from your accommodation and drop you back afterward.

How far in advance should I book? On average, most travelers book about 62 days ahead, so it’s wise to plan early to secure your preferred date.

This tour combines the best of Madeira’s scenic beauty, local culture, and a bit of fun adventure — all wrapped into a private, comfortable experience. Whether you’re a couple, a small family, or friends, it offers a thoughtful way to enjoy Monte without the usual crowds or fuss.