Funchal: Monte Tropical Garden & Toboggan Ride by Tuk Tuk

Discovering the enchanting Monte Palace Tropical Garden and taking an exhilarating toboggan ride down the hill are must-do experiences when visiting Funchal, Madeira. This 3-hour tour combines scenic exploration and adrenaline-pumping fun, showcasing the island’s rich culture and natural beauty. Hop aboard a tuk tuk for a picturesque ride to the gardens, where you’ll be captivated by the exotic plants and breathtaking vistas. But the real excitement is yet to come…

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Key Points

A 3-hour tour in Funchal, Madeira’s capital, including a scenic tuk tuk ride to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
Exploration of the Monte Church and the annual Lady of Monte feast, followed by a thrilling toboggan ride down the hill.
The Monte Palace Tropical Garden features 70,000 square meters of exotic plants, an extensive orchid collection, and architectural highlights.
The historic Lady of Monte Church showcases Baroque and Neoclassical styles and provides insight into Madeira’s cultural heritage.
The toboggan ride offers an adrenaline-filled experience, with speeds up to 30 mph on a 2-mile track.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This 3-hour tour allows visitors to experience the highlights of Funchal, Madeira’s capital city.

The tour includes a scenic tuk tuk ride to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a 70,000 square meter oasis of exotic plants.

After exploring the garden and enjoying a coffee break, the tour continues to the Monte Church to learn about the Lady of Monte feast.

The highlight is the thrilling Toboggan ride down the hill, a traditional local experience.

Priced from $119.41 for up to 2 people, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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Exploring the Monte Palace Tropical Garden

As visitors approach the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, they’re greeted by its vast expanse of 70,000 square meters, brimming with an enchanting array of exotic plants and lush vegetation. The garden boasts an impressive diversity, from towering palm trees to vibrant floral displays. Visitors can wander the winding paths, discovering hidden corners and capturing breathtaking photo opportunities. To enhance the experience, the garden offers a cozy coffee break, allowing guests to pause, recharge, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

| Plant Highlights | Architectural Highlights |

|—————–|————————-|

| – Extensive orchid collection | – Monte Palace, a former royal residence |

| – Rare and endangered species | – Ornate fountains and statues |

| – Verdant tropical foliage | – Stunning views of Funchal and the ocean |

The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a must-visit destination, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and cultural exploration.

The Iconic Lady of Monte Church

The iconic Lady of Monte Church stands prominently atop the Monte hill, beckoning visitors to explore its hallowed halls.

As part of the tuk tuk tour, guests have the opportunity to learn about this historic landmark and its significance. The church is dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Monte, the patron saint of Funchal.

Guests on the tuk tuk tour can learn about the historic Lady of Monte Church and its significance as the patron saint of Funchal.

Visitors can marvel at the church’s architectural beauty, featuring a mix of Baroque and Neoclassical styles. The Lady of Monte feast, celebrated annually, is a cherished local tradition that honors the Virgin Mary.

The church provides a serene respite and a glimpse into Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.

The Thrilling Toboggan Ride Experience

A thrilling highlight of the tuk tuk tour is the renowned Toboggan ride down the hills of Monte.

Toboggans are traditional wooden sleds that glide along a winding, paved track at exhilarating speeds. The Toboggan ride provides an unforgettable adrenaline rush:

Reach speeds up to 30 mph as you zip down the 2-mile track.
Experience the thrill of sharp turns and dips as the Toboggan maneuvers the hilly terrain.
Capture stunning views of Funchal and the surrounding landscape during the ride.

This quintessential Madeiran experience is a must-do for adventurous visitors.

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Practical Considerations for the Tour

While booking the tour, visitors should be aware of a few practical considerations.

Tickets for the Toboggan ride and Tropical Garden must be purchased separately, costing 35€ for two people and 15€ per person, respectively.

Tickets for the Toboggan ride and Tropical Garden must be purchased separately, costing 35€ for two people and 15€ per person, respectively.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3 years old, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Guests are advised to leave baby strollers, luggage, and large bags at their accommodations, as they’re not allowed.

Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather.

Tour availability and starting times may vary, so it’s best to check before booking.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

How have previous customers rated this tour? Based on over 167 reviews, the tour has an outstanding overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

Travelers have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the fun and unique experience of exploring Funchal by tuk tuk, and the overall value for money.

Key highlights from customer reviews include:

Guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling
The thrill of the traditional toboggan ride
Informative visits to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and Church

With its high ratings and positive customer feedback, this tuk tuk tour is a great way to discover the highlights of Funchal.

Flexibility and Availability

The tour offers flexibility, as customers can reserve now and pay later.

Plus, the itinerary is subject to change, so it’s important to check availability for starting times.

The tour isn’t suitable for all visitors, as it’s not recommended for children under 3, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

The tour may not be suitable for young children, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Guests are also advised to avoid bringing baby strollers, luggage, or large bags.

Preparing for the Adventure

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, visitors should note a few important considerations when preparing for the Funchal adventure.

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear to navigate the garden’s paths comfortably.
Leave large bags and luggage behind, as they aren’t permitted on the tuk tuk.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning vistas and unique experiences, such as the thrilling toboggan ride.

Keeping these tips in mind will help travelers make the most of their Funchal tour and create lasting memories of this vibrant and picturesque destination.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour information states that large bags and luggage are not allowed, so bringing outside food and beverages would likely not be permitted.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary isn’t customizable. It’s a pre-set package that includes visits to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and the Toboggan ride. However, you can choose your preferred pickup location from hotels or cruise ships in Funchal.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. It’s not recommended for children under 3 and baby strollers, luggage, and large bags are not allowed on the tour.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Gifts During the Tour?

While the tour itself doesn’t include opportunities to purchase souvenirs or gifts, visitors can explore the Monte Tropical Garden’s gift shop during the visit. Additional shopping time isn’t provided, so any purchases should be made within the garden’s retail space.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a minimum number of participants. It’s available for individuals or small groups up to 2 people. The price is per group, so you don’t need to wait for a larger group to join.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour in Funchal combines the serene beauty of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden with the exhilaration of a traditional toboggan ride. Enjoy Madeira’s lush flora, visit the historic Lady of Monte Church, and then coast down the hill at thrilling speeds. An unforgettable experience that showcases the island’s natural and cultural wonders.