Funchal: Botanical Garden & Old Town Tour by TukTuk (1h45)

A Fresh Take on Funchal: The Botanical Garden & Old Town TukTuk Tour

If you’re visiting Madeira and looking for a way to combine scenic beauty with local charm, this Funchal tuk tuk tour offers a compact yet immersive experience. Covering the historic Old Town and the lush Botanical Garden, this 105-minute journey is a lively and practical way to get a taste of the city’s highlights without the fatigue of walking or the expense of taxis.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances convenience with authenticity. The driver and guide, Moses, has a reputation for being not only knowledgeable but also adaptable—helping travelers with limited mobility and sharing interesting stories along the way. The garden visit is a standout, offering a chance to see over 2,500 plant species, many endemic to Madeira, in a sprawling 80,000-square-meter space. Plus, the scenic drive through Funchal offers panoramic views and a glimpse into daily local life.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that tuk tuks are fast and small, which might feel a bit rushed for some visitors, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating or if you’re keen on a more relaxed pace. As one reviewer pointed out, the driver was “in a hurry,” and left travelers on the roadside to pick up another set of guests. Also, this tour doesn’t include entry tickets—so you’ll need to budget for the Botanical Garden entrance separately.

This tuk tuk experience is a lively, intimate way to see some of Funchal’s best sights, especially if you’re looking for a private, guided excursion that combines fun transportation with cultural insights.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized Experience: This is a private group tour, making it more flexible and tailored to your pace and interests.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Moses are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to assist, especially for travelers with limited mobility.
• Beautiful Botanical Garden: You’ll visit one of the island’s most stunning gardens, home to over 2,500 plant species, including endemic flora.
• Flexible Return Options: You can finish the tour at the initial pickup point or at another location, offering some convenience if you have other plans.
• No Ticket Included: Entrance fees to the Botanical Garden are not included, so you need to plan for this additional cost.
• Weather Considerations: The tour is outdoor-focused, so weather can impact your experience—be prepared with weather-appropriate clothing.

Navigating Funchal on a TukTuk: A Detailed Look

Starting Strong in Funchal’s Old Town

The tour kicks off with a pickup in the heart of Funchal’s Old Town, a neighborhood brimming with history, colorful streets, and lively cafes. It’s a charming place to start; the narrow streets, lined with pastel-colored buildings, give you an immediate sense of local life. Your guide, likely Moses, will give you snippets of local stories and history as you cruise through.

The scenic drive from Old Town to the Botanical Garden is a quick 15-minute ride, but during this time, you’ll get a chance to enjoy sweeping views of the city and the Atlantic beyond. Expect to see some of the city’s hillsides, terraced houses, and the bustling port area. This part of the trip is perfect for snapping photos and getting a feel for Funchal’s vibrant atmosphere.

Exploring the Madeira Botanical Garden

The highlight—and main reason for many visitors—is the stop at the Madeira Botanical Garden. Spanning 80,000 square meters, this garden is a lush, colorful display of indigenous and endemic plants. It’s a paradise for plant lovers, with over 2,500 species from various continents, neatly organized into five distinct areas.

What makes this visit special is not just the aesthetic appeal but also the opportunity to see rare and unique flora that you might not easily find elsewhere. The gardens also feature the Museum of Natural History of Madeira, providing further insights into the island’s rich biological diversity.

According to reviews, visitors find the garden’s beauty to be “really stunning,” and it’s a great place to stretch your legs and take some memorable photos. Be prepared for about an hour here, which is enough time to wander and soak it all in, but not so long that it feels rushed.

The Drive Back and Flexibility

After exploring the gardens, the tour continues with a scenic 15-minute drive back to Funchal. Most travelers finish the experience at the original pickup point, but you have the option to be dropped off elsewhere—ideal if you’re planning to explore more or head to your accommodation.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

The tour provides hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off—a real convenience—plus an insurance policy for peace of mind. Your driver, often also your guide, will tell you about Madeira’s sights, history, and natural wonders during the ride.

However, you’ll need to budget separately for entry tickets to the Botanical Garden, as these aren’t included. Drinks, food, and other attractions are also not part of the package, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those seeking a quick yet rundown of Funchal’s highlights. It suits travelers who appreciate guided tours but want the intimacy of a private group. Because it’s a tuk tuk, it’s especially good for small groups or couples, and the fact that guides like Moses are willing to adapt for those with limited mobility is a big plus.

However, if you’re a slow traveler or prefer a more relaxed pace, the fast-moving nature of tuk tuks might feel hurried—particularly on busy days or if the weather is rainy. It’s also not suitable for children under 3 or those with mobility issues or large luggage.

Pricing and Value

Given the inclusion of pickup and drop-off, the guided nature, and the opportunity to see Madeira’s iconic botanical gardens, the price is quite reasonable. It offers a convenient, private experience that saves you time and hassle, especially if you’re short on days. Keep in mind that entrance fees are extra, but this flexibility allows you to choose what you want to spend on the gardens themselves.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who values guidance and a personal touch, this tuk tuk adventure is an excellent way to see Funchal’s core attractions without the stress of navigating alone. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview with authentic insights. Nature lovers will enjoy the Botanical Garden, and those who appreciate local stories and tips will find the guides especially helpful.

It’s also a smart choice if you prefer a small, private experience over large group tours, with the added bonus of being flexible about return locations.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the positive reviews, especially praising guides like Moses for their friendliness and knowledge, this tour offers good value for what it provides. The stunning botanical gardens are a major highlight, and the convenience of pickup and drop-off makes it easy to integrate into your day.

That said, it’s not perfect for everyone. If you’re looking for a slow-paced, relaxed stroll or have mobility challenges, this might not be the best fit. Also, remember that tickets to the garden are separate, and the tuk tuk’s quick pace might not satisfy those wanting a leisurely experience.

This tour provides an authentic, fun, and scenic way to experience Funchal’s natural and urban charms—ideal for curious travelers eager to combine convenience with local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entry tickets to the Botanical Garden?
No, the entrance fee to the Botanical Garden is not included. You’ll need to purchase tickets separately on site.

Can I end the tour at a different location?
Yes, you can finish the tour at the original pickup point or another location in Funchal, offering added flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for children under 3, nor is it recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the tuk tuk does not accommodate large or fragile equipment.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 1 hour and 45 minutes, including the visit to the Botanical Garden and the drives.

Are drinks and food included?
No, these are not included, so plan to bring water or snacks if desired.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is offered in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially since the tour is outdoors.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, providing flexibility to fit your travel plans.

Is this tour private or part of a larger group?
It is a private group experience, designed for a more personal and tailored outing.

To sum it up, if you’re after an easy, guided way to see some of Funchal’s most beautiful spots—including the lush Botanical Garden—this tuk tuk tour offers a practical and enjoyable option. It combines the thrill of small vehicle sightseeing with insightful commentary, making it a memorable part of your Madeira adventure.