Nothing!

I had the most magical stay at Mama Ruisa. I was traveling on my own and immediately felt at home. Jean-Michel, Daniel and all the staff were so warm and friendly, gave excellent tips and went above and beyond to look after me. The room was gorgeous and the bed was so so comfortable. Missing it already. I’ll definitely be back!

Stayed in April 2024

Everything; the atmosphere, the service, the personal, the art etc etc.

Stayed in March 2024

We really enjoyed spending time wat Mama Ruisa, their staff and team are so kind and wonderful. Service is unmatched!

Stayed in February 2024

Nothing was not likable. Simply perfect!

The property is exquisitely refurbished, with a lovely garden and veranda and even a swimming pool. I loved the place! So, so beautiful. On top of that the location is super cozy and nice and the staff were all so kind and helpful. They booked my transfer to and from the airport and even booked me a massage on a very short notice and went beyond and above to make me feel at ease. I really felt at home and as if I was visiting friends (rather than staying in an hotel). I was traveling solo so that made all the difference! They even have the friendliest pets (a dog and a cat) that came to visit me while in my room. The owner is super friendly and very flexible in terms of check in and check out time. I couldn’t have picked a better place! Highly recommended!

Stayed in January 2024

Nothing

This was a stunning property with caring, friendly and attentive staff. Everything from coffee delivered, recommendations, checking us in early.. This was during the weekend Taylor Swift was in town and during an incredible heat wave. I was able to book due to a cancellation and the staff helped us add another night. This place is top notch. Special shout out to the staff who helped us, Daniel, Valeria and Bruno.

Stayed in November 2023

An absolute gem in Santa Teresa with views over Guanabara Bay to Niteroi (unlike Aprazivel and Tereze which have northern views). Most discreet mansion house on a hill furnished with the best of Brazilian modern (1950s-1960s) furniture. Delightful pool area, just accept the occasional road noise to remind you are in a town (but where don't you in Rio?). But very quiet at night. It's a must for those with good taste/de bon gout.

Stayed in October 2023

In general expected a bit more from the neighbourhood, but the stay was perfect in every aspect.

The property has this magical vibe of teleporting the guests into a romanticised version of Rio, surrounded with beautiful brazilian design pieces and the stunning view from the balcony. The staff is very attentive and discreet in the same time. The pool and the covered outdoor area are also adding up for a perfect stay. There are many restaurants and bars in the area easily reachable by foot.

Stayed in September 2023

Beautiful property with incredibly well thought out and amazing interior design. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. They were super helpful in giving us tips and advice on what to do in Rio. Great location in Santa Teresa too.

Stayed in August 2023

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The hotel has an excellent location if you would like yo visit the city of Rio. It is an amazingly well maintained historical house. They have a lot of staff which makes sure you feel like home and they keep everything perfectly clean. We met also the owner which helped us with a lot of useful information.

Stayed in September 2023

It would be great if all the staff who interact with guests (including night shifts) spoke English.

Incredible property: stylish building, garden, furniture, every little detail was a piece of art. Even the breakfast is served with the cups, spoons and coffee pot which reflect the style of the place. The view is incredible, the food is great.

Stayed in July 2023

It's hard to find anything to dislike, but perhaps this: Breakfast was set with two options, It would have been nice to have a bit more flexibility.

The attention to detail in the interior design was amazing. the recommendations by the hotel for activities were perfect. The views were unbeatable.

Stayed in June 2023

Could sometimes be loud with street noise, but would still recommend and stay again :)

Property - Uniquely designed, beautiful interior design, and incredible views from the balcony. Our room was spacious and had lots of comforts - comfy bed, nice lighting, shower with good water pressure. The pool and lounge areas were also really lovely. Wifi was strong enough for video calls Hospitality - Lucas and the other staff were super friendly and very helpful with recommendations, itineraries and offering drinks, helping with luggage, etc. We had breakfast both mornings and it was delicious with different options. Location - Lots of bars/restaurants within 5 mins walking of the hotel. Ubers were easy to call to get around the city. Also some nice parks and museums close by.

Stayed in June 2023

The laundry service took more time than we expected, but we got our clean clothes right before we left.

Easily one of the most gallery-like boutiques one will ever find, especially in Brazil. Located in the heart of a classy Italian/Portuguese neighbourhood with historical villas and interesting bars/restaurants nearby. The lobby and rooms are filled with fashion mags and interesting art, with furniture running from antiques to art deco. If you’re looking for a beachy but indoor experience, you also have a beautiful little garden with a pool. All staff are attentive, though some may speak less-than-perfect English. The owner is a tweedy gentleman and a funny guy, super responsive and recommends just the best spots to go to. He also speaks perfect English and French.

Stayed in May 2023

beautiful room in what felt like an oasis

Stayed in April 2023

the most beautiful place. the interior was stunning, and so well curated. everything was very comfortable, clean and well organized.

Stayed in March 2023

In my 15 years of travelling to Brazil Mama Ruisa is the most exceptional place I have ever stayed in. Run by charming hotelier, Jean-Michel, his beautiful team and Oscar (the pom). Mama Ruisa, is a grand colonial beauty who in her hands holds a thousand bougie secrets with silver service to match. Her views over the bay of Rio are unmatched in Santa Teresa and for those who step over her threshold, a lifetime of memories waiting to be made. Thank you for the exquisite wine list, the kindness, the cocktails, the monkeys, the humming birds, butterflies, orchids and the eagles above.

Stayed in March 2023

Very friendly staff, always helpful finding our way, organizing trips, making us feel comfortable. Views from Mama Ruisa to Rio de Janeiro are stunning. The neighborhood is authentic and ideal for those who love individual travelling.

Stayed in March 2023

Wonderful boutique hotel in stunning setting with views over the city. Such friendly and welcoming staff. Valeria was so friendly and we really appreciated the early check in and all of the tips.

Stayed in December 2022

Kitchen facilities are limited. It is an older property, so may not have some of the modern conveniences people might expect from a hotel of a similar price, but the breakfast was lovely, and the rooms are really generous.

Beautiful and very private property furnished with incredible mid-century furniture with far-reaching views. Very short walk up the hill to a lively neighborhood and some great restaurant options. All the staff were charming and very helpful.

Stayed in December 2022

Nothing

Mama Ruisa Boutique Hotel is a gem 💎 in the heart of Santa Theresa. We loved absolutely everything about it. Jean-Michel and Thierry are awesome hosts. When entering the hotel, you’ll have the feeling time stopped a long time ago and the peaceful atmosphere will make you want to stay there forever. The attention to details is spectacular. We will definitely be back.

Stayed in November 2022

beautifully restored old mansion with stunning views

Stayed in November 2022

Where to start? Staying at Mama Ruisa is more like staying at a family friend or benevolent uncle's home than a hotel. Incredibly elegant yet comfortable, this lovely property is a peaceful oasis within walking distance of Rio's most vibrant districts and some cracking little local restaurants. Most of all, the service was so delightful from Thierry, Julie and Thiago - including a phone chat with owner Jean-Michel to recommend the perfect restaurant that evening. What hotel does that?! The room was incredibly spacious and airy.The decor was exquisite and every detail had been thought about. Nothing was too much trouble. Order the omelette for breakfast, and a caipirinha for the balcony at sunset and die happy!

Stayed in October 2022

Nothing.

A most charming boutique hotel. Very individual, felt like a home. Lovely setting, lovely garden/ pool, most charming interieur, run by French owner who has an eye for the little details that make it special. Great veranda views. Great recommendation by the owner. We will be back.

Stayed in October 2022

well appointed, classily decorated and superbly attentive and wise staff

Stayed in September 2022