Funchal Cable Car Will Shut Down for Extensive Maintenance from January to April 2026
The Funchal cable car, connecting Almirante Reis to the Monte district, will close for three months starting January 5, 2026, and is expected to reopen in early April. This information comes from an internal note sent by the administration of the Teleféricos da Madeira to its employees. The closure follows the end-of-year holiday season, including Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Planned Upgrades Include Larger Cabins, Cable Replacement, and Tower Reinforcement
The temporary shutdown is part of a planned project to expand and modernize the cable car system. The works will include cabins with larger capacity, replacement of cables, and reinforcement of the supporting towers. The administration described the renovations as essential to maintain safety and improve the technological infrastructure of the cable car.
Closure Expected to Affect Tourism and Traditional Monte Activities
The renovation period coincides with the peak cruise ship season in the region, which may lead to fewer tourists visiting Monte during the first quarter of 2026. Local activities, such as the traditional Monte toboggan rides, are expected to be affected by the closure.
Renovation Comes Amid Increased Attention to Safety and Growing Visitor Numbers
The closure also comes amid increased public attention to cable car safety following the recent Elevador da Glória accident in Lisbon. Despite the temporary interruption, the system remains popular. In the first half of 2025, nearly 740,000 tickets were sold, representing a 4.2% increase compared to the same period last year.
Current Prices For Rides With The Funchal Teleférico
One-Way Tickets:
Adult (Web): €14.50 - Valid for 90 days after purchase
Child (up to 6 years, Web): €7.25 - Free entry for children up to 6; valid for 90 days after purchase
Round-Trip Tickets:
Adult (Web): €20.00 - Valid for 90 days after purchase
Child (7–14 years, Web): €10.00 - Free entry for children up to 6; valid for 90 days after purchase
Source: RTP Madeira
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