Funchal: Monte and Old Town Tour by Tuk-Tuk

Explore the enchanting city of Funchal with an unforgettable Monte and Old Town Tour by Tuk-Tuk. This 65-minute adventure promises an immersive experience, guiding you through the charming streets and vibrant farmers market. The highlight, however, lies in the scenic climb to Monte, where you’ll discover the historic Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte and bask in breathtaking views. But the thrill doesn’t end there – an exhilarating 2-kilometer basket cart descent awaits, offering a unique and unforgettable way to experience Madeira’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. With knowledgeable guides and a private group setting, this tour is sure to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more of this enchanting destination.

Key Points

• A 65-minute private group experience exploring Funchal’s old town and Monte via a scenic tuk-tuk ride, with an option for a thrilling basket cart descent.
• Highlights include visiting the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, climbing to the 585-meter-high Monte for elevated views, and the basket cart descent as an additional activity.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided commentary, and entry tickets for the toboggan ride, but excludes food, drinks, and basket cart ride tickets.
• Restrictions apply, as the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments, and oversize luggage is not allowed.
• Based on 88 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.6/5, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and the unique experience of exploring Funchal by tuk-tuk.

Tour Overview

The Funchal: Monte and Old Town Tour by Tuk-Tuk offers a unique and immersive 65-minute experience, priced from €27 per person.

The tour is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, and includes pickup from accommodations in Funchal. It’s a private group experience, and the cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour showcases over 100 years of traditional tuk-tuk transportation, taking guests through the old town and farmers market before a 20-minute climb to the 585-meter-high Monte.

The highlight is the thrilling 2-kilometer descent by basket cart, though tickets for this must be purchased separately.

Experience Highlights

The Funchal: Monte and Old Town Tour by Tuk-Tuk offers a unique experience with over 100 years of tradition.

Guests will enjoy a scenic tuk-tuk ride through the old town and local farmers market.

The tour culminates with a visit to the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte and a 20-minute climb to Monte at an altitude of 585 meters.

The true highlight, however, is the thrilling 2-kilometer basket cart descent, providing an adrenaline-fueled end to the tour.

While the basket cart ride isn’t included in the initial price, it’s a must-do experience for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in Funchal.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off by tuk-tuk, a guided tour, and entry tickets for the toboggan ride, which costs €17.5 per person.

However, food, drinks, and tickets for the basket cart ride aren’t included in the initial price.

Passengers should be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments, and oversize luggage isn’t allowed.

Tickets for the basket ride must be purchased separately, and this additional activity isn’t part of the tour package.

Important Information

It’s important to note that the Funchal: Monte and Old Town Tour by Tuk-Tuk isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.

Plus, oversize luggage isn’t allowed on the tour. Guests should be aware that the basket cart descent, while thrilling, requires a separate ticket purchase not included in the initial tour price.

Customer Reviews

Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, customers have thoroughly enjoyed the Funchal: Monte and Old Town Tour by Tuk-Tuk.

The tour has received an impressive overall rating of 4.6/5 from 88 reviews, with highlights including:

• Knowledgeable and helpful guides who provide valuable insights into the local history and culture
• An enjoyable and scenic experience, with the tuk-tuk ride through the old town and the picturesque climb to Monte being particular standouts
• Recommendations for the thrilling basket cart descent, despite the additional cost, which customers found to be a must-do activity
• Excellent value for money, offering a unique and immersive way to explore Funchal’s highlights.

Tuk-Tuk Ride

One of the highlights of the Funchal: Monte and Old Town Tour is the scenic tuk-tuk ride through the city’s historic streets and lively farmers market.

These three-wheeled vehicles provide a unique and traditional mode of transportation, with over 100 years of history in Madeira. Passengers can sit back and enjoy the views as the tuk-tuk navigates the narrow lanes, passing by charming buildings and bustling stalls.

The ride offers an immersive way to experience the local culture and atmosphere of Funchal’s Old Town. Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guides provide commentary, sharing insights into the city’s rich heritage and pointing out noteworthy sights along the way.

Church of Nossa Senhora Do Monte

The tour makes a stop at the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, a historic landmark perched atop the Monte hills overlooking Funchal.

This 18th-century church boasts a striking white facade and intricate interior, providing visitors with a glimpse into Madeira’s rich religious heritage.

Visitors can:

• Admire the church’s ornate altars, carved wooden features, and intricate azulejo tiles
• Learn about the church’s history and its significance in the local community
• Take in the panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding landscape from the church’s elevated position
• Explore the adjacent gardens and grounds, which offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city below.

Basket Cart Descent

After exploring the historic Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, visitors then embark on the thrilling descent down the Monte hills in traditional Madeira basket carts.

These wicker carriages, steered by skilled drivers, glide at speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour along a 2-kilometer route. The exhilarating ride offers breathtaking views of Funchal’s charming old town and stunning natural scenery.

Though the basket carts are an additional cost not included in the tour package, many visitors consider this to be a highlight of the experience.

The descent lasts around 20 minutes, providing an adrenaline-filled conclusion to the tuk-tuk tour of Funchal’s Monte and old town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a private group setup, allowing for a customized experience without a set maximum group size. The flexibility enables visitors to explore the highlights with their own private group at their own pace.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments. Passengers with oversized luggage are also not allowed on the tuk-tuk. The tour is designed for a private group experience.

Is the Tuk-Tuk Shared With Other Groups?

The tuk-tuk is a private experience, not shared with other groups. It’s a personalized tour where you’ll have the vehicle and guide solely for your group’s use throughout the entire 65-minute duration.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

The tour can be customized to include additional stops, allowing guests to tailor the experience to their preferences. However, the provider’s policy and availability would need to be confirmed, as the standard tour itinerary may not be flexible.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather During the Tour?

If the weather is inclement, the tour operator will adjust the itinerary to ensure the safety and comfort of your. They’ll prioritize indoor activities and sheltered areas, while providing updates and alternatives to make the most of the experience.

Recap

The Monte and Old Town Tour by Tuk-Tuk in Funchal offers a thrilling and immersive way to explore Madeira’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. From the charming streets and vibrant farmers market to the historic Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte and the exhilarating basket cart descent, this 65-minute adventure promises an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking to discover the island’s unique charm.