Tour Cable Car Toboggan Tropical Garden and Skywalk

Experience the Best of Funchal with a Cable Car, Toboggan, Tropical Gardens, and Skywalk

If you’re looking to turn a day in Funchal into an adventure filled with stunning views and authentic sights, this tour might be just what you need. For around $75 per person, you’ll spend approximately 4 to 5 hours exploring Madeira’s outdoor gems, including a scenic cable car ride to Monte, a visit to the Monte Botanical Garden, an exhilarating toboggan ride, and a visit to the Cabo Girao skywalk. Led by a knowledgeable guide—most reviews praise Luis for his friendly professionalism—you’ll enjoy private transportation that takes the stress out of logistics.

What we love most? First, the combination of views and activities—the cable car and toboggan offer unique perspectives of Funchal from above and down below, while the tropical gardens reveal a wide variety of rare plants. Second, the personalized experience—this isn’t a crowded bus tour; it’s a private service where your guide handles all tickets and waits in lines, freeing you up to enjoy each sight at your own pace.

One consideration? The Botanical Garden can be slippery and steep, especially in winter, which might concern those with limited mobility. It’s an outdoor location, so weather can also impact the experience. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and a touch of adventure—perfect for those who want a hassle-free, personalized day exploring Madeira’s outdoor treasures.

Key Points

• Private Transportation: Enjoy a comfortable, personalized trip with hotel or cruise ship pickup and drop-off.
• Stunning Views: From the cable car to Monte and the Cabo Girao skywalk, you’ll see some of Madeira’s most breathtaking sights.
• Authentic Experiences: The toboggan ride offers a classic Madeira thrill, and the botanical gardens showcase rare plants and Asian art.
• Time-saving Convenience: Included tickets and your guide’s patience mean avoiding long lines and busy queues.
• Informed Guides: Guests frequently praise guides like Luis for their friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility.
• Value for Money: Compared to exploring on your own, the all-in-one package offers good value, especially considering ticket inclusions.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Funchal Cable Car to Monte

Our adventure begins with a 15-minute cable car ride that takes you from the heart of Funchal to the hilltop village of Monte. The views from the cable car are what Madeira is famous for—panoramic scenes of the city, lush valleys, and the Atlantic beyond. Many reviewers mention how this calm, scenic ascent sets the perfect tone for the day. You might love the way the cable car offers a bird’s-eye view of the old town and the port, giving you a fresh perspective before exploring further.

While the ticket isn’t included in the base price, having it arranged in advance means you avoid the typical lines, which can be long during peak times. The cable car ride itself is smooth and quiet, making for a relaxing start and a great opportunity for photos.

Monte Palace Madeira and Tropical Garden

Once in Monte, the visit to Monte Palace Madeira is a highlight. This sprawling garden boasts a diverse collection of flowers, plants, minerals, and lakes, mixed with Asian art pieces. The guides often emphasize the impressive variety of rare plant species, making it a favorite for nature lovers. Expect to spend around an hour here, wandering through lush pathways and enjoying the views over Funchal.

Guests have raved about how this garden is one of the most beautiful in the region, with some describing it as “marvellous” and “a feast for the senses.” It’s also worth noting that the outdoor nature of the garden can make footing tricky if it’s wet, and some reviews mention the steep, slippery walkways. So, wear sturdy shoes and be cautious if the weather isn’t dry.

The Toboggan Ride from Monte to Funchal

One of Madeira’s iconic attractions is the toboggan ride, which is included in your tour. It’s a 15-minute descent down the winding streets of Monte, where you’ll sit in a wicker basket sled guided by experienced “carreiros.” This is a thrilling experience—fast, fun, and uniquely Madeira. Several reviews describe it as “an amazing experience,” with one guest saying they’d ride it every day if they could.

Your guide Luis will coordinate the timing, and he might even wait in line with you, saving you from the long queues that can form—something many travelers find invaluable. The ride offers a quick but memorable adrenaline rush, with picturesque views of the hillside and Funchal below.

Cabo Girao Skywalk

Next, you’ll visit the Cabo Girao skywalk, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe (about 600 meters above sea level). Here, tickets are included, and you’ll step onto the glass platform that juts out over the ocean. The views are stunning—think of sheer cliffs dropping into the Atlantic and the rugged coastline stretching for miles. Visitors often comment that it’s worth the stop just for the breathtaking scenery.

This location is ideal for taking photos and soaking in the natural drama of Madeira’s coast. It takes about 30 minutes, but many feel the views are so impressive they could linger longer.

Câmara de Lobos

The tour concludes in the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque setting with colorful boats and traditional houses. It’s a great spot to stroll, snap photos, and perhaps grab a bite if you wish. The visit here is brief—about 20 minutes—but many reviews highlight it as a peaceful, authentic slice of Madeira life. You might also find this the perfect place to sample local snacks or enjoy a glass of Madeira wine.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour’s real strength lies in its balance of scenic vistas, cultural sights, and hands-on experiences like the toboggan ride. The private transportation means there’s no rushing from site to site, and your guide, Luis, is frequently praised for his friendly, accommodating attitude and wealth of local knowledge. Several guests mention how he helped them skip lines and even took photos of them on the baskets—small touches that elevate the experience.

The price point may seem higher than self-guided exploration, but when you factor in tickets included for the skywalk, door-to-door private service, and the personalized attention, it offers notable value. Especially in a tourist-heavy place like Madeira, avoiding queues and having someone handle logistics significantly improves the experience.

Logistics and Considerations

• The tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
• Your pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise ship add convenience.
• The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and flexible.
• While lunch isn’t included, plenty of options are nearby, and the village of Câmara de Lobos offers casual eateries.
• The tour operates in most weather conditions, but poor weather might impact outdoor visits like the botanical garden.

What Reviewers Say

Many visitors highlight the knowledge and helpfulness of guides like Luis, calling the service “luxurious”, “stress-free”, and “well-organized”. Guests have appreciated how the guide’s local insights made each stop more meaningful and how avoiding queues allowed more time to savor the sights.

However, some have expressed concerns about the Botanical Garden’s terrain, noting that slippery, steep paths can be challenging—especially if it’s wet or if mobility is limited. Also, one reviewer suggested that for those with their own transportation, the tour might seem more expensive than necessary, but most agree that the value of having tickets, a guide, and transportation balances the cost.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking a personalized, scenic, and active way to explore Madeira’s highlights, this tour offers an excellent blend of sightseeing and authentic experiences. It’s ideal for travelers who value convenience—no worries about parking, queues, or tickets—and who want to maximize their limited time. The private guide, Luis, consistently earns praise for making the experience both informative and fun.

This tour works well if you’re comfortable with outdoor walking and some uneven terrain. It’s particularly suited to visitors who love nature, panoramic views, and a touch of adventure—like the thrill of the toboggan—and prefer a stress-free, all-inclusive day.

For those who want a deeply engaging Madeira experience without the hassle of planning every detail, this private tour offers a memorable snapshot of the island’s outdoor beauty and local charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the toboggan ride and the gardens are generally suitable for children, and many reviews mention traveling with kids. However, be mindful of the terrain at the botanical gardens and ensure children can handle outdoor walking and steep, slippery paths.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers private transportation, hotel or cruise pickup and drop-off, and tickets for Cabo Girao skywalk, as well as the toboggan ride, cable car, and botanical garden entry. Lunch and other attractions are not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll receive a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Do I need to book in advance?
Absolutely. The tour is popular and is typically booked 82 days in advance, especially during peak season. Early booking guarantees your preferred date.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must—especially at the botanical garden and steep areas. Bring sun protection, water, and a light jacket if the weather is cool or windy.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops are around 15 to 30 minutes, with the garden and skywalk being the longest. The entire tour runs about 4 to 5 hours, giving ample time at each site.

Is the tour suitable for seniors or those with mobility issues?
While many parts are accessible, the uneven, sometimes slippery paths at the botanical gardens and steep streets may pose challenges. It’s best to assess individual mobility needs beforehand.

What makes this tour stand out from other Madeira excursions?
The private, all-inclusive nature, coupled with the friendly local guide who manages tickets and queues, makes this experience smoother and more personalized than standard group tours.

In summary, this tour offers a thoughtful way to experience Madeira’s natural beauty, unique sights, and outdoor attractions—all with the convenience of private transport and a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager for a rundown or a repeat traveler wanting to see the highlights with ease, it’s a well-balanced choice that delivers value and memorable moments.