by Portugal Getaways Team
July 15, 2026 • 6 min read
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.
Frequently asked questions about the Monte toboggan ride
How much does the Monte toboggan ride cost? As of 2026 it is about €27.50 for one person, €35 for two and €52.50 for three, paid in cash on-site. Confirm current prices before you go.
How long is the toboggan ride in Madeira? The run is about 2 km from Monte to Livramento and takes around 10 minutes, reaching speeds of roughly 30 to 45 km/h.
What are the toboggan opening hours? Generally Monday to Saturday, about 09:00 to 18:00, closed on Sundays and some public holidays. Check the operator for the current times.
How do you get to the Monte toboggan? Most visitors take the Funchal cable car up to Monte, though you can also go by bus or taxi. The ride ends at Livramento, so you return by taxi, bus or on foot.
Is the Madeira toboggan ride worth it? For most people, yes, as a fun, one-of-a-kind experience and a piece of Madeira's heritage. It is short, so think of it as an attraction rather than a way to get around.
Ride the Toboggan on a Guided Tour
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.
