Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia, is located in the northwest part of the country and is a significant body of water in the Ethiopian Highlands. It is a stunning and culturally rich destination with historical, natural, and religious sites. Here are some top things to do when visiting Lake Tana:

1. Boat Tour of Lake Tana

• Description: The most popular activity at Lake Tana is taking a boat tour. You can hire a boat to explore the lake’s serene waters, offering views of islands, monasteries, and the surrounding landscape. The boat ride is peaceful and allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake.
• Tips: Boat tours typically depart from Bahirdar, the main city on the lake’s shore. You can hire a guide for a more informative experience.

2. Visit the Monasteries on the Lake’s Islands

• Description: Lake Tana is home to several ancient monasteries, some of which date back to the 14th century. These monasteries are located on islands and peninsulas and are an important part of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity.
• Key Monasteries to Visit:
  • Kibbinget Monastery (or Ura Kidane Meheret): Located on an island in Lake Tana, this monastery features beautiful murals depicting biblical scenes and the life of saints.
  • Azwa Mariam Monastery: Situated on one of the islands, this monastery is famous for its ancient manuscripts and religious icons.
  • Entos Eyesu Monastery: Known for its scenic location and impressive artifacts, this monastery is located on an island in Lake Tana.
  • Tana Qirqos Monastery: Located on an island that is known for its picturesque beauty and historical importance.
• What to Expect: Visiting these monasteries offers a glimpse into Ethiopia’s Christian heritage, with beautiful art, sacred relics, and a peaceful atmosphere.

3. Visit the Blue Nile Falls

• Description: The Blue Nile Falls, or Tis Issat Falls (meaning “Waterfall of Smoke” in Amharic), are one of Ethiopia’s most famous natural wonders. Located about 30 kilometers southeast of Bahirdar, the falls are fed by the Blue Nile River, which originates from Lake Tana. The falls are spectacular, especially during the rainy season when the flow is at its peak.
• Things to Do: You can hike to the falls for a closer view or take a boat trip along the river to get a different perspective of the falls.
• Best Time to Visit: The falls are most impressive between June and September, during the rainy season when the water levels are high.

4. Explore the Town of Bahir Dar

• Description: Bahir Dar, the main city on the shores of Lake Tana, is a charming destination with a mix of modern and traditional Ethiopian life. Stroll along the Bahir Dar promenade by the lake, explore local markets, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
• Things to Do:
  • Visit the Blue Nile River Bridge, which connects Bahir Dar to the surrounding area.
  • Explore the Bahir Dar Market for local crafts, spices, and souvenirs.
  • Visit the Bahir Dar Museum, which showcases the city’s history and the rich culture of the Amhara region.

5. Explore the Lake Tana Biosphere

• Description: Lake Tana is a biodiversity hotspot, home to many bird species, plants, and wildlife. Take time to explore the lake’s surrounding ecosystems, which include wetlands, forests, and islands.
• Bird Watching: The lake is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with species like Pelicans, Kingfishers, and Cormorants. The surrounding areas offer great opportunities for bird enthusiasts.

Bahir Dar, located on the shores of Lake Tana, offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious hotels. Whether you’re visiting for its cultural and historical significance, exploring the Blue Nile Falls, or enjoying the serene views of the lake, here are some options to consider:

1. Jacaranda Hotel

• Type: Mid-range to upscale
• Description: Jacaranda Hotel is one of the more popular hotels in Bahir Dar, offering comfortable and modern rooms with a mix of traditional Ethiopian and contemporary decor. It is centrally located and provides great views of Lake Tana.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, conference facilities, Wi-Fi, room service, and free parking.

2. Blue Nile Resort

• Type: Mid-range to upscale
• Description: A beautiful lakeside resort offering serene views of Lake Tana and the Blue Nile River. Blue Nile Resort features spacious rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those who want to be close to nature.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, spa, conference room, Wi-Fi, and garden area.

3. Bahir Dar Hotel

• Type: Mid-range hotel
• Description: This hotel offers a convenient location and good value for money. It provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities, perfect for travelers looking for a quiet stay with easy access to the city’s attractions.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi, room service, and free parking.

4. Tana Hotel

• Type: Budget to mid-range
• Description: Located near the town center, Tana Hotel is a budget-friendly option that offers basic but clean and comfortable accommodations. It’s an excellent choice for those who are looking for an affordable stay.
• Facilities: Restaurant, free Wi-Fi, basic rooms, and a central location.

5. Abay Minch Lodge

• Type: Mid-range
• Description: Situated a bit outside Bahir Dar, this lodge offers a peaceful and scenic environment with views of Lake Tana. It’s a great place for those looking for a quiet retreat surrounded by nature.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, garden, Wi-Fi, and comfortable rooms.

6. Fasil International Hotel

• Type: Mid-range to upscale
• Description: A newer, well-established hotel in Bahir Dar offering modern amenities and a professional service. The hotel is well-located, making it easy to explore the city and nearby attractions like the Blue Nile Falls.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, fitness center, Wi-Fi, and conference facilities.

7. Lake Tana Hotel

• Type: Mid-range
• Description: Lake Tana Hotel is a charming lakeside hotel offering scenic views of the lake and nearby islands. It provides a peaceful ambiance with a focus on comfort and relaxation.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, lake-view rooms, Wi-Fi, and room service.

8. Gish Abay Hotel

• Type: Budget to mid-range
• Description: A small, friendly hotel located close to the town center. Gish Abay Hotel offers simple rooms with essential amenities, and it’s a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to explore the city and surrounding areas.
• Facilities: Restaurant, basic rooms, Wi-Fi, and friendly service.

9. Motel M

• Type: Budget guesthouse
• Description: Motel M is a low-cost guesthouse with basic but clean and comfortable rooms. It is an affordable option for those on a budget, offering simple accommodations and a central location.
• Facilities: Basic rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a simple restaurant.

10. Samra Hotel

• Type: Mid-range
• Description: Samra Hotel offers a comfortable stay with spacious rooms and modern amenities. It is located conveniently near the city center, making it a good choice for those wanting to explore Bahir Dar.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi, room service, and free parking.

11. Bahir Dar Grand Hotel

• Type: Mid-range
• Description: This hotel offers a blend of traditional Ethiopian hospitality and modern amenities. It’s located in a central area, offering easy access to local attractions.
• Facilities: Restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi, and comfortable rooms.

Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its rich history and cultural significance. The lake is located in the northwest part of Ethiopia and is home to stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and historical sites. Here are the top sites to visit around Lake Tana:

1. Lake Tana Monasteries

The monasteries on Lake Tana’s islands are some of the most famous and revered in Ethiopia. Many of these monasteries date back centuries and are essential parts of Ethiopia’s religious and cultural history.

• Ura Kidane Meheret Monastery: Located on Dek Island, this monastery is famous for its colorful murals depicting biblical scenes, including the life of Christ and saints. The paintings are considered one of the finest examples of Ethiopian religious art.
• Kibbinget Monastery: On one of Lake Tana’s islands, this monastery is known for its rich history and the beautiful murals inside, which depict religious figures and stories.
• Azwa Mariam Monastery: Situated on a small island, this monastery is known for its beautiful views and collection of ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts.
• Tana Qirqos Monastery: This monastery is set on a peaceful island and is one of the oldest in the region. It is historically significant and houses ancient relics and manuscripts.
• Entos Eyesu Monastery: Located on an island, it is famous for its ancient religious texts and manuscripts, as well as its scenic setting.

2. Blue Nile Falls (Tis Issat Falls)

• Location: About 30 kilometers southeast of Bahir Dar, the Blue Nile Falls, also known as Tis Issat Falls (meaning “Waterfall of Smoke” in Amharic), is one of Ethiopia’s most famous natural attractions.
• Description: The falls are particularly impressive during the rainy season (June to September), when the flow is strong and the falls produce a mist, creating a smoky effect. There are several ways to view the falls, including hiking or taking a boat trip along the Blue Nile River. The falls are a popular spot for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers.

Best Time to Visit:

• October to April (dry season) is the best time to visit Lake Tana, as the weather is sunny and pleasant, making outdoor activities like boat rides and hiking more enjoyable.
• June to September (rainy season) offers lush greenery, but there may be heavy rains, so be prepared for some unpredictability in your outdoor activities.