Monte Wicker Toboggan Ride

The Monte wicker toboggan ride is a traditional downhill run on a wicker basket sled through the streets of Monte, above Funchal on Madeira, Portugal. The ride starts near Largo da Fonte, below the church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, where the Carreiros do Monte operators' association is based on Caminho do Monte, about 6 km from central Funchal. Two carreiros, dressed in white with straw hats, guide and brake the sled by running alongside it, using rubber-soled boots on the steep paved road. The descent lasts about 10 minutes and covers roughly two kilometres, finishing at Livramento or Terreiro da Luta depending on the route. Fares from 1 May 2026 are €30 for one person, €40 for two and €60 for three. The activity needs no fitness or skill, so it suits families, couples and most visitors, although the carreiros decide on weight and age limits, and small children must sit with an adult. Visitors wear flat closed shoes, hold on to the handrails and can bring a camera. Because the ride is a traditional transport that dates from the nineteenth century, the carreiros are experienced and use a standard braking technique, and the short distance means any problem can be handled by stopping the sled. The operators work in dry weather only, as wet cobbles are unsafe, so rides may be suspended after rain. The ride runs year-round, and early morning gives fewer queues and a quieter street. Many visitors reach Monte by cable car from Zona Velha or by bus, then take the toboggan down and a taxi or bus back up. A tip for the carreiros is customary but optional. Photographs are taken by the carreiros at the end and sold, and visitors can also use their own cameras. Visitors should confirm current fares at the starting point, because prices are set by the association.