Discover Bahir Dar

Over twenty islands and peninsulas in Ethiopia's largest lake are home to centuries-old monasteries with elaborate wall paintings and church treasures still guarded to this day, many reachable only by boat.

Known as "Tis Abay" or "smoking water," these falls plunge into a gorge with tremendous force and rank among Ethiopia's most impressive natural spectacles, especially during the rainy season.

Dense coffee forests surround several old monasteries on this peninsula on Lake Tana, reachable by boat from Bahir Dar and offering a peaceful contrast to the city.

The wide, palm-lined waterfront promenade invites strolling and offers numerous cafés with lake views — a relaxed starting point for boat trips and early-morning fish markets.

Ethiopian Airlines flies several times daily from Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar, with a flight time of about one hour. Travel by bus is also possible but takes considerably longer.

Amharic is the dominant language in the region. Some English is usually understood in hotels and on organized boat tours.

October to May during the dry season is best. However, the falls of the Blue Nile carry the most water during the rainy season from June to September.

Modest clothing with covered shoulders and legs is required, and women are not permitted to enter some monasteries on the Zege Peninsula. A small tip for the monk who shows the church treasures is customary.