Riding 2 km downhill in a wicker basket pushed by two men in straw hats seems like something from another century—and that’s exactly why the Monte Basket Cars are Madeira’s most iconic experience. A tradition that began in 1850 as a means of transportation has become one of the most famous descents in the world. In this updated guide: 2026 prices, schedules, how to get there, and what to expect.
What Are the Monte Basket Cars?
The basket cars have been around since 1850, when they served as a real means of transportation to travel down from Monte to Funchal—the slope is so steep that sliding down was faster than any alternative at the time. Today, they’re no longer a mode of transportation: they’re the island’s most iconic attraction, and the line of tourists at the top of Monte proves it every day.
Each cart is handcrafted from wicker and wood by local artisans and can carry up to three people. The carts are driven by the “carreiros”: always in pairs, dressed in white and wearing straw hats, with thick rubber-soled boots that act as brakes. The technique is passed down from generation to generation.
What the descent is like
It’s about 2 km from Monte to Livramento—roughly 10 minutes of pure adrenaline on real paved roads—with curves, high-speed straights, and the cart drivers balanced behind the basket. Is it safe? The tradition dates back over 170 years, and the carriers have been doing this their whole lives. Is it thrilling? Ask Ernest Hemingway, who described the descent as one of the most thrilling experiences of his life.
Prices in 2026
| People in the basket | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 25€ |
| 2 people | 30€ |
| 3 people | 45€ |
| Children up to 5 years old (accompanied) | Free |
Payment is made on site, and at the end of the descent there are official photographers who sell photos of the experience (optional).
Hours
Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last ride around 5:45 p.m.). Closed on Sundays and on August 14 and 15, December 25, January 1, Good Friday, and Easter.
💡 Tip: Arrive before 10:30 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m.—in the middle of the day, the line gets longer with tour groups and cruise ship passengers.
How to get to the starting point
- Funchal Cable Car → Monte (the classic route): takes about 15 minutes from downtown Funchal, offering panoramic views of the bay. Combine both experiences: take the cable car up and the basket ride down.
- City bus (lines 20/21 to Monte)—the budget-friendly option.
- Taxi/car to Largo das Babosas or the Monte Church.
The starting point for cars is just below the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte—be sure to visit the church and the Monte Palace Tropical Garden before heading back down.
See what the experience is like
Monte appears at 6:15 in this video guide to the island:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to ride down in a basket car?
Yes—the drivers are trained professionals, the tradition dates back to 1850, and their rubber-soled boots act as brakes throughout the ride.
How long does the descent take?
About 10 minutes to cover the 2 km between Monte and Livramento.
Does the basket car go all the way down to the center of Funchal?
No—the descent ends at Livramento. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to the center (it’s about a 30-minute walk).
Do you need to book in advance?
No reservations are required for the regular line: just show up, pay, and ride down. During peak season, avoid midday.
Prices and schedules verified in July 2026 with official sources (Carreiros do Monte / Visit Funchal). Subject to change—check the official website before your visit.
