2 Days Visiting Bahir Dar, Blue Nile Waterfall & City Tour
Active
2d
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Bahir Dar is a beautiful lakeside town, and often the first stop on the historic north circuit of Ethiopia. Most people spend a night or two at Bahir Dar, giving you enough time to soak up the city and enjoy the scenery.
The most popular thing to do in Bahir Dar is the boat trip out on to Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake. Lake Tana is home to a number of islands, and on these islands sit ancient monasteries with incredible frescoes and wall paintings.
Slightly outside of town is the Blue Nile Falls. Most impressive during the rainy season from June to September, the falls are the biggest on the Nile river system.
Available options
2 Days Visiting Bahir Dar, Blue Nile Waterfall & City Tour
Pickup included
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Accommodation
English speaking guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
What's not included
Personal tips
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Important notes
our representative guide will be delivering an entry ticket at the site
About Bahir Dar
Bahir Dar is a charming city in Ethiopia, known for its beautiful lakeside setting on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia. It is the capital of the Amhara Region and serves as a gateway to the historic sites of Ethiopia, including the ancient monasteries on Lake Tana and the stunning Blue Nile Falls.
Top Attractions
Lake Tana
Lake Tana is the largest lake in Ethiopia and a major tourist attraction in Bahir Dar. It is known for its scenic beauty, birdlife, and historic monasteries on its islands.
Nature
Half day to full day
Budget to Moderate
Blue Nile Falls
The Blue Nile Falls, also known as Tis Abay, is a spectacular waterfall located about 30 km south of Bahir Dar. The falls are a major attraction and offer breathtaking views, especially during the rainy season.
Nature
Half day to full day
Budget
Zege Peninsula
The Zege Peninsula is home to several historic monasteries, including the famous Ura Kidane Mehret and Azwa Mariam monasteries. These monasteries are known for their ancient manuscripts, religious art, and cultural significance.
Historical
Half day
Budget
Bahir Dar City Center
The city center of Bahir Dar is a vibrant area with local markets, restaurants, and cafes. It offers a glimpse into the daily life of the locals and is a great place to experience the city's culture and cuisine.
Cultural
Half day
Budget to Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Injera with Wat
Injera is a sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, served with various stews (wats) such as doro wat (chicken stew), misir wat (lentil stew), and shiro wat (chickpea stew).
Main Course
Vegetarian options available, gluten-free (teff is naturally gluten-free).
Tibs
Tibs are sautéed pieces of meat, usually beef, lamb, or goat, cooked with spices and vegetables. It is often served with injera.
Main Course
Contains meat, gluten-free.
Kitfo
Kitfo is a traditional Ethiopian dish made from minced raw beef, marinated in spices and served with injera and ayib (cottage cheese).
Main Course
Contains raw meat, gluten-free.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boat trips on Lake Tana
Visiting the Blue Nile Falls
Lakefront dining
Cultural experiences
Coffee ceremonies
Visiting monasteries on Lake Tana
Exploring historic sites in Gondar
Best Time to Visit
December to February
The best time to visit Bahir Dar is during the dry season, from December to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. This period offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the city's natural and cultural attractions.
15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Amharic
- Widely spoken: English, Oromo, Tigrinya
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with normal precautions
Bahir Dar is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's important to take normal precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas, so it's essential to keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.
Getting there
By air
- Bahir Dar Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from the city center
By bus
Bahir Dar Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Bahir Dar. They are affordable and cover most parts of the city. However, they can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Lakefront Area
City Center
University Area
Day trips
Gondar
180 km (112 miles) • Full day
Gondar is a historic city known for its medieval castles, palaces, and churches. It was once the capital of the Ethiopian Empire and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Blue Nile Gorge
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
The Blue Nile Gorge is a stunning canyon located near Bahir Dar, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Festivals
Timket (Epiphany) • January 19th
Enkutatash (Ethiopian New Year) • September 11th or 12th
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience, especially when visiting historic sites and monasteries.
- Try local dishes at traditional restaurants and cafes for an authentic taste of Ethiopian cuisine.
- Visit the Blue Nile Falls during the rainy season (June to September) for the most impressive water flow and stunning views.
- Carry small denominations of cash, as change may be limited, especially in rural areas and markets.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and rural areas, and respect local customs and traditions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
