I’ve finally gathered reviews and comments about Mara House and our Salahadeen Restaurant here on my own website. There aren’t many for Salahadeen, as it’s been open only to Mara House guests for years and TripAdvisor has since removed those reviews. These come from TripAdvisor, Google Maps, guest blogs, letters, and other kind words shared over time. Some are missing, as I hadn’t realized TripAdvisor began deleting reviews from tour guests who did their tours with us but who didn’t stay at Mara House. I hope these words give you a true sense of who we are and what Mara House is all about. Enjoy, Mara
471 entries.
We stayed at Mara House for 5 days in November 2016. It was the best hotel we had while in Egypt. Why? From the moment Mara's staff picked us up at the airport to the moment we checked out, we felt as if they really cared about us. They knew us on a first name basis and always greeted us as we were coming and going. We really liked that Mara House was in a neighborhood where we could go walking every night and enjoy the Egyptian culture. The perk of it being in a more residential area is that you can walk the streets without the hassle of all the touts. We had many people approach us on the local streets to welcome us to Luxor and they genuinely wanted to talk to us, not sell us something. The room was clean, big, decorated well, and had good air conditioning. Mara arranged all our tours in Luxor and for our trip to Aswan. We also had her arrange our tours in Cairo. We are very independent travelers who do a lot of research before we travel and are not a big fan of tours...but, in Egypt I recommend having guides. They are inexpensive compared to other countries and they can help with the cultural & language differences.
We are a same sex male couple who recently travelled to Egypt.
Mara House Luxor is off the beaten tourist track in a safe and respectable part of Luxor, Egypt is a country of contrasts and to really experience how Egyptians live, book your stay at Mara House and live amongst those who rely on working in the tourist areas. Simple.
The staff are unbelievably flexible and are totally dedicated to helping you to have a "Mara House Experience". Seriously dedicated. Not a fault in sight in this regard.
If you yearn for Ancient Egyptian monuments and mystery, this is an ideal place to pursue your desires in this regard. Mara and her extremely capable staff have connections with some extremely knowledgeable local guides such as Mohammed and deserving of particular mention (for us anyway), Ahmed, whose mastery of story language will have you mesmerised on the Nile temples and itching to visit the next temple/site. Mohammed is like a walking encyclopedia on the Luxor sites, ask him any question and he will happily provide the information for you.
You can't do all this without the support of the stupendous drivers such as Mahmoud (if he likes you you get to call him by his nickname - much easier to wrap those western vowels around, but you have to earn it), whose road mastery was a lesson in diligence and safety. He knows those roads backwards, he has some great shortcuts that will give you photos no-one else could provide. Bonus if you are a smoker and ask to stop in the middle of the desert!
If you yearn for an 'authentic' experience, this is also a place for you. Just discuss with Mara or Ahmed what it is you would like to do and hey presto it is done. An enviable thing to arrange things in Egypt so quickly! If you ask for the moon, be prepared for at least a 12 hour wait while Ahmed and Amr organise it for your next day! Truly amazing.
The food and service and feeling of secure safety more than compensates for any supposed inconveniences westerners may feel by having a wet room as part of the bath rooms. Don't compare to western style five star hotels, you will not enjoy yourself if you do, and that will be your own fault, not theirs. Toughen up and focus on why you are there. Mara House becomes your bolt hole from which to experience both Modern AND ancient Egypt. Vital to your stay. Location is great for quiet walks where you can say good morning to the neighbours, have a local coffee and chat with real Egyptians.
Did we mention already, the food. Incomparable Amr has a real gift of his heart when he prepares your food. My partner was taken shopping in the local markets to gather the ingredients for our feast that evening. That experience alone is more than enough excuse to visit. The food is to die for, really. There are not enough superlatives to describe it, you must visit to experience genius, good simple and wholesome food. (I had a cold while there, was given the 'cold' drink - next day boom I felt fantastic.) We in the West seem to have forgotten this and rely on pills and 'modern' medicine. The Egyptians have been doing this for millenia, tried and tested.
Again, did we mention the food ?
Seriously, Ahmed and Amr were welcoming and we were treated as part of their family. Having a local with you while you walk the streets is invaluable to help you communicate and learn (also to help you avoid being taken advantage of when trading - listen to their advice - it works). As Mara says you gotta walk like an Egyptian - watch how you are then treated compared to westerners who perhaps don't. Much more respect and people are much more likely to invite you for Shisha or tea, without the hassle. A great chance to kick back, relax, watch life and have some GREAT international conversations that lead to better understandings between the West and Egypt. Ask questions and be prepared to answer questions, it will be revealing I am sure, if you have an open mind and heart.
Again, did we mention the food ?
Seriously worth considering, read terms and conditions and have no expectations when you arrive for a mind blowing and memorable experience of Egypt.
You should know that a mosque is close by so take your good earplugs that first call to prayer in the morning is loud!!
Mara House Luxor is off the beaten tourist track in a safe and respectable part of Luxor, Egypt is a country of contrasts and to really experience how Egyptians live, book your stay at Mara House and live amongst those who rely on working in the tourist areas. Simple.
The staff are unbelievably flexible and are totally dedicated to helping you to have a "Mara House Experience". Seriously dedicated. Not a fault in sight in this regard.
If you yearn for Ancient Egyptian monuments and mystery, this is an ideal place to pursue your desires in this regard. Mara and her extremely capable staff have connections with some extremely knowledgeable local guides such as Mohammed and deserving of particular mention (for us anyway), Ahmed, whose mastery of story language will have you mesmerised on the Nile temples and itching to visit the next temple/site. Mohammed is like a walking encyclopedia on the Luxor sites, ask him any question and he will happily provide the information for you.
You can't do all this without the support of the stupendous drivers such as Mahmoud (if he likes you you get to call him by his nickname - much easier to wrap those western vowels around, but you have to earn it), whose road mastery was a lesson in diligence and safety. He knows those roads backwards, he has some great shortcuts that will give you photos no-one else could provide. Bonus if you are a smoker and ask to stop in the middle of the desert!
If you yearn for an 'authentic' experience, this is also a place for you. Just discuss with Mara or Ahmed what it is you would like to do and hey presto it is done. An enviable thing to arrange things in Egypt so quickly! If you ask for the moon, be prepared for at least a 12 hour wait while Ahmed and Amr organise it for your next day! Truly amazing.
The food and service and feeling of secure safety more than compensates for any supposed inconveniences westerners may feel by having a wet room as part of the bath rooms. Don't compare to western style five star hotels, you will not enjoy yourself if you do, and that will be your own fault, not theirs. Toughen up and focus on why you are there. Mara House becomes your bolt hole from which to experience both Modern AND ancient Egypt. Vital to your stay. Location is great for quiet walks where you can say good morning to the neighbours, have a local coffee and chat with real Egyptians.
Did we mention already, the food. Incomparable Amr has a real gift of his heart when he prepares your food. My partner was taken shopping in the local markets to gather the ingredients for our feast that evening. That experience alone is more than enough excuse to visit. The food is to die for, really. There are not enough superlatives to describe it, you must visit to experience genius, good simple and wholesome food. (I had a cold while there, was given the 'cold' drink - next day boom I felt fantastic.) We in the West seem to have forgotten this and rely on pills and 'modern' medicine. The Egyptians have been doing this for millenia, tried and tested.
Again, did we mention the food ?
Seriously, Ahmed and Amr were welcoming and we were treated as part of their family. Having a local with you while you walk the streets is invaluable to help you communicate and learn (also to help you avoid being taken advantage of when trading - listen to their advice - it works). As Mara says you gotta walk like an Egyptian - watch how you are then treated compared to westerners who perhaps don't. Much more respect and people are much more likely to invite you for Shisha or tea, without the hassle. A great chance to kick back, relax, watch life and have some GREAT international conversations that lead to better understandings between the West and Egypt. Ask questions and be prepared to answer questions, it will be revealing I am sure, if you have an open mind and heart.
Again, did we mention the food ?
Seriously worth considering, read terms and conditions and have no expectations when you arrive for a mind blowing and memorable experience of Egypt.
You should know that a mosque is close by so take your good earplugs that first call to prayer in the morning is loud!!
Mara House is a truly special place in the world and much more than a place to lay your head. We have travelled to over 35 countries in Asia, Africa, Middle East, and Europe and have not experienced a better staff, guides, food, and accommodation. It is truly a home away from home.
The Saladin Feast is one of the best meals We've ever had. The cook, Amr, comes from a background of 5 star hotels and personal chef for Egyptian leaders. The host, Ahmed, is personal, professional, kind, knowledgeable and willing to help out in any way possible to make your stay enjoyable.
Guides Fatma, Manar, and Mohammed are exceptionally knowledgeable (like walking encyclopedias), friendly, kind, and became truly friends. Egyptology is complex and can be overwhelming, but these guys made it entertaining and so much fun to learn the layers upon layers of Egyptian history while visiting the temples and museums.
Go to Egypt and experience the magic of Mara House! You will be amazed.
The Saladin Feast is one of the best meals We've ever had. The cook, Amr, comes from a background of 5 star hotels and personal chef for Egyptian leaders. The host, Ahmed, is personal, professional, kind, knowledgeable and willing to help out in any way possible to make your stay enjoyable.
Guides Fatma, Manar, and Mohammed are exceptionally knowledgeable (like walking encyclopedias), friendly, kind, and became truly friends. Egyptology is complex and can be overwhelming, but these guys made it entertaining and so much fun to learn the layers upon layers of Egyptian history while visiting the temples and museums.
Go to Egypt and experience the magic of Mara House! You will be amazed.
Mara's House is excellent and I'd stay here again. She's from Ireland but has been living in Egypt for a long time, so she knows a lot about the place. Hotel is spotless and she makes sure you feel great too. I used her touring services too not only in Luxor, but in Cairo, and she didn't dissapoint. Mohammed was my tour guide and he knows a lot about Egypt. Glad I stayed with Mara.
Good evening from Egypt Mara!
My goodness....what an incredible place you have here! I could not have been more fortunate and owe you a debt of gratitude! All of the men have taken such good care of me -- from the room and meals to the tours. They have been gracious, patient, attentive "handlers" and I could not have asked for more.
The heat has been an issue for me. I have experienced 123 degree F heat in Arizona but that does not compare to this.
Last night my stomach felt queasy and this morning was worse. That combined with the heat I made the decision to cut our long day of touring short. I feel bad but I knew that my feeling poorly would cause more problems if we kept visiting temples. Coming back Ahmed was gracious in getting me the "Mara medicine" and now, at almost 7pm I am beginning to feel better.
So Mara.....I have only one suggestion. Way too much food! I feel embarrassed to only eat an amount that is appropriate for my stomach and then leave so much left. I do not like waste!
You have truly put together a wonderful package for travelers and I will tell everyone I know! Also, you are so very well respected...as we were out and about so many said such positive remarks!
The staff that you have along with drivers and tour guide are all treasures...so very fortunate to have been in their presence!
Thank you again Mara...
My goodness....what an incredible place you have here! I could not have been more fortunate and owe you a debt of gratitude! All of the men have taken such good care of me -- from the room and meals to the tours. They have been gracious, patient, attentive "handlers" and I could not have asked for more.
The heat has been an issue for me. I have experienced 123 degree F heat in Arizona but that does not compare to this.
Last night my stomach felt queasy and this morning was worse. That combined with the heat I made the decision to cut our long day of touring short. I feel bad but I knew that my feeling poorly would cause more problems if we kept visiting temples. Coming back Ahmed was gracious in getting me the "Mara medicine" and now, at almost 7pm I am beginning to feel better.
So Mara.....I have only one suggestion. Way too much food! I feel embarrassed to only eat an amount that is appropriate for my stomach and then leave so much left. I do not like waste!
You have truly put together a wonderful package for travelers and I will tell everyone I know! Also, you are so very well respected...as we were out and about so many said such positive remarks!
The staff that you have along with drivers and tour guide are all treasures...so very fortunate to have been in their presence!
Thank you again Mara...
I'm just now getting around to writing reviews from my travel experiences this summer. I spent 4 nights and 5 days at Mara House and absolutely loved it. My room was VERY big, quiet, and comfortable. Mara's team does everything possible to make sure their guests have a comfortable, safe and pleasant stay. My luggage was lost during my flights to Egypt and I had only one change of clothing. But Ahmed made sure I had fresh, clean clothes ready every morning, so I barely missed my luggage. The food at Mara House is wonderful, fresh and plenty! I especially appreciate how Mara arranges and plans the tours. No stress! And as for price... You can *try* to coordinate your hotel, transportation, tours, tour guides, meals, etc yourself but you probably will pay more and things will not go as smooth as what Mara has in the plan. Mara does all the work for you and it's a blessing! It is a science! I recommend Mara House to everyone. Everything went according to schedule, yet I was never rushed. I even had free time in the afternoons and evening to experience Luxor. If you're a solo female traveler wondering if Egypt is safe, it seemed very safe to me. I've been to several countries, but Egypt was my first Middle Eastern holiday. Egyptian people are very warm, friendly and welcoming. I hope to return many many times
We'd like to thank and recommend Mara's services for providing a safe, solid, and unforgettable tour of the Giza Plateau, Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, Khan-el Khalili, and the Islamic district of Cairo. Mara was very straightforward and accessible via email as we booked our last-minute tour and thank goodness we did because arranging visits to these amazing sites in Cairo is definitely challenging, even for the more experienced international traveler. Our guide, Manar, was just precious and is literally one of the most educated and kind tour guides we have EVER been paired with. She knows literally everything about Egyptian history and culture and we felt so safe and spoiled with her the entire time. We entered the tomb of Khufu's pyramid, saw the solar boat, Sphinx, and Valley Temple in the morning before the heat really set in. Our driver was very safe and efficient (Cairo traffic/driving is seriously overwhelming) and it was a newer air-conditioned Toyota minibus. We just loved Manar's tour of the Islamic district and Khan el-Khalili. Even if you consider yourself a more experienced international traveler, we highly recommend booking through Mara if you are visiting the sites in Cairo. I can honestly say we 100% would have encountered incredibly frustrating situations had we not been with our guide Manar. Now, we have amazing memories of our trip to Egypt without a single hassle! Thanks so much!
I've put off writing a review because I've been trying to think how to do justice to Mara House. Anyone who looks Luxor up online is bound to find the incredible resource that is Mara's website. There was never any question I was going to book my stay through her. But I wasn't prepared for how helpful and comprehensive a service Mara offers. She's full of information and tailors a trip to exactly what you want. I've never had a tourist experience quite like it. My stay and the tours in Luxor were exceptional (and the Egyptian breakfast was to die for).
But what I really want to recommend are the tours in Cairo. My two tour guides there were the best I've ever had anywhere. In fact, I enjoyed meeting them more than the amazing sites they took me to! Such sweet and interesting people. I only booked my Cairo tours through Mara as an afterthought, but they were the best decision I made, and the tours were the highlight of my time in Egypt.
But what I really want to recommend are the tours in Cairo. My two tour guides there were the best I've ever had anywhere. In fact, I enjoyed meeting them more than the amazing sites they took me to! Such sweet and interesting people. I only booked my Cairo tours through Mara as an afterthought, but they were the best decision I made, and the tours were the highlight of my time in Egypt.
Mara carefully organized every detail of our vacation, airport transfer, 3 tours, flucca picnic at the Nile & a calesh ride around town.
We also had 2 amazing dinners in their restaurant which is a must try!
Rooms are clean, large, suite sized.
Ahmed, the manager and Amr were extremely helpful. Mohamed, the tour guide is well knowledged.
Mara House is a small amazing place hidden outside the usual tourist area, a wonderful experience.
We also had 2 amazing dinners in their restaurant which is a must try!
Rooms are clean, large, suite sized.
Ahmed, the manager and Amr were extremely helpful. Mohamed, the tour guide is well knowledged.
Mara House is a small amazing place hidden outside the usual tourist area, a wonderful experience.
Not expecting 5 star but got it!
"This amazing old world style hotel has spacious suites, enchanting sitting rooms, free wifi and top quality, attentive staff. You can sunbake on the roof too!!!
I have had the best Egyptian food of my entire 2 week trip here - just sumptuous!
Mara also organized some great tours and the staff had really good suggestions for my days off there too.
Highly recommended and I will be staying there again when I return!"
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Date of stay: December 2015 Reviewed on TripAdvisor 2016
"This amazing old world style hotel has spacious suites, enchanting sitting rooms, free wifi and top quality, attentive staff. You can sunbake on the roof too!!!
I have had the best Egyptian food of my entire 2 week trip here - just sumptuous!
Mara also organized some great tours and the staff had really good suggestions for my days off there too.
Highly recommended and I will be staying there again when I return!"
Read less
Date of stay: December 2015 Reviewed on TripAdvisor 2016
See More
- Mara House Luxor – your home away from home
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Photos of Our Suites – Take a look at the rooms you’ll call home.
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Mara House Guest Gallery – Faces and memories from over the years.
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Salahadeen Restaurant & Feast – The story behind our restaurant and its exclusive menu.
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(Coming Soon: Photo Journal of Mara House – from the first brick to today.)