TukTuk Adventure in Curral das Freiras with Tukxi Madeira
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous physical activity required.
Overview
Hop aboard an electric TukTuk with Tukxi Madeira for a 3-hour journey up from Funchal to Madeira’s stunning Curral das Freiras. Discover sweeping mountain views, volcanic valleys, and unique cultural stories with local guides.
Curral das Freiras
120€ Private TukTuk (up to 2 or 3 people) | Nuns' Valley | 3h
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 3-hour TukTuk adventure through Madeira's stunning landscapes. With a knowledgeable local guide, you'll ascend from Funchal to panoramic viewpoints like Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, where dramatic mountain vistas and the enchanting Nuns Valley await. Experience nature's beauty and cultural charm in one unforgettable journey.
Ride up the mountains, comfortably in a Tukxi, with a skilled local guide on the driving seat.
Rates
Private TukTuk up to 2 or 3 people 120€
Duration
3 hours
About:
The Nuns Valley tour provides wonderful changes in landscape, from the sea side and urban environment of Funchal to the greener and dramatic mountain views, with changes in temperature and vegetation in between.
Your tour will start from your accommodation or cruise ship, followed by quick drive up the hills of Funchal and a stop at “Pico dos Barcelos” view point. From there you will be able to admire the city of Funchal bellow. After the stop at “Pico dos Barcelos” your guide will drive you up the hills to “Eira do Serrado” view point. From this view point, at 1095 meters above se level and at “hearth” of Madeira’s mountains you will be able to admire, not just the mountain views but also the Nuns Valley and its village almost 500 meters below. The village is nested inside an ancient valley created by millions of years of erosion. Around it the central mountain chain of Madeira stands guard, providing an amazing and almost cinematographic landscape. If you choose to do so, you can also visit the village, your guide can drive you through the tunnel that crosses the mountain. If you choose to not do it, and extra stop will be provided at another point of interest on the ride back to Funchal.
Highlights:
- Pico dos Barcelos
- Eira do Serrado
- Curral das Freiras
Adventure Tips
Charge Your Camera
Bring fully charged devices; the panoramic views from Eira do Serrado are worth capturing.
Wear Layers
Mountain weather can shift quickly—carry a light jacket even on warm days.
Prepare for Narrow Roads
The TukTuk ride navigates tight mountain paths—those prone to motion sickness should come prepared.
Book in Advance
Slots are limited and in high demand, so secure your trip ahead to ensure availability.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Madeira Firecrest (Regulus madeirensis), an endemic bird species
- Laurisilva butterflies, unique to the island’s laurel forests
History
Curral das Freiras was historically a refuge for Carmelite nuns fleeing pirates, lending the valley its name and secluded character.
Conservation
Efforts to protect Madeira’s laurel forest (Laurisilva) contribute to maintaining this UNESCO World Heritage site, with sustainable tourism encouraged by operators like Tukxi Madeira.
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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket
Protects against sudden temperature drops in the mountain air.
fall specific
Sunscreen
Essential for sun protection at exposed viewpoints.
summer specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture Madeira’s striking vistas and unique landscapes.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Useful if you want to briefly step off the TukTuk for photo stops.