Bahir Dar , Ethiopia

8 Days Historical Sightseeing Tour

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About this experience

Day 1- Arrive In Addis Ababa
Our driver will pick you up from the airport and take you to your Hotel.
Day 2 -Fly From Addis To Bahirdar
You will have a boat trip to the Monasteries. After lunch drive out to and visit Blue Nile falls. Overnight in Blue Nile Resort
Day 3 -Bahirdar To Gondar After breakfast continue to Gondar.
Day 4 -Fly From Gondar To Lalibela
You will visit the first group of Lalibela Churches which are located north of a small stream named Jordan River.
Day 5- Visit Lalibela After breakfast, have an excursion trip to the cave-built up church of Ne’akuto Le’ab.
Day 6 - Fly From Lalibela To Axum
Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel before venturing out to the Northern Stelae field to see the 4th century obelisks that lend the region its name.
Day 7 -Axum – Hawzien
In the morning you will drive to Hawzien and on the way you will visit Yeha temple.
Day 8 - Hawzien – Mekele- Addis Ababa
You will visit Abuna Yemata Guh

Available options

8 Days Historical Sightseeing Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Local guides and Scouts where needed

All Fees and Taxes

Domestic Flights

Air-conditioned vehicle

Breakfast

What's not included

Alcohol drinks for any age

Tips and personal expenses

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Important notes

We will provide at the ticket

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.