Bahir Dar

Northern Circuit

Introduction to Bahir Dar

Bahir Dar, which means “by the side of the sea“ in the Amharic language, is a port city located on the southern shore of Lake Tana.
The expansive lake creates a beautiful backdrop for this attractive city, with Palm and Jacaranda trees lining its streets. Fascinating architecture and a myriad of restaurants and shops make this an excellent destination to explore at leisure.

Bahir Dar, capital of the Amhara region in northern Ethiopia, started as a Jesuit settlement around the 16th and 17th centuries. Emperor Halie Selassie considered moving the national capital here and one of his palaces stands near the city.
Bahir Dar is a haven for tourists, offering access to the Blue Nile Falls and more than 30 lush islands, many occupied by fascinating ancient churches and monasteries.

Travel Tip

Recommended Length of Stay : 1 Night

Elevation : 2,100m (7,oooft) Above Sea Level

Major Religion : Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity

UNESCO World Heritage Site

More info

When in Bahir Dar

Key Attractions

Blue Nile Falls

Blue Nile Falls is known locally as ‘Tis Abay’, which means “The Smoking Water“ in Amharic. The falls are 328 feet wide and the water plunges some 150 feet, giving rise to picturesque steam clouds and rainbows.
A short distance downstream you will come across a 17th-century Portuguese bridge, constructed at the command of Emperor Susenyos. This was the first bridge that was built across the Blue Nile River.

Lake Tana

Lake Tana is the source of the Blue Nile River and one of the world‘s longest waterways. It is Ethiopia’s largest lake – 73km in length and 68km wide, and supplies more than half the country’s fresh water. The lake is dotted with more than 30 islands, many of which house churches and monasteries.
The area is also rich in fauna. Hippopotamuses can often be seen where the Blue Nile flows out of Lake Tana. Denser forested areas are home to Black and White Colobus Monkeys (and some extravagantly colored butterflies and dragonflies). Crested Porcupines, Duiker, Genets and Nile Monitors (up to a meter long) are also frequently spotted in this area.

Lake Tana Monasteries

The biblical monarch, the legendary Queen of Sheba, was believed to have ruled from Axum over the kingdom of Sheba, also referred to as Saba in Arabia. During that time, King Solomon was reigning as King of Israel, in Jerusalem. The Queen of Sheba made an epic journey to meet the divine king and bestow on him the wealth and gifts of her own monarchy. The fascinating tale is documented in the Bible in I Kings 10:1-13 and II Chronicles.
When visiting Axum you can walk among the ruins of what was once a massive palace with finely-mortared stone walls, deep foundations and its own impressive drainage system. It is believed to be the oldest building in Axum.

The Zege Peninsula

The Fetewrari Belay Ethnographic Museum is a private museum that was established in the 1980’s. The museum, which was once the house of an Axumite leader Fetewrari Belay during the time of Emperor Haile Selassie 1’s reign, includes collections that date back to the period of Atse Yohannes IV. The museum and its collections are owned by the family of Fetewrari Belay. The family’s ethnographic antiquities give visitors to this museum valuable insight into the more modern history of the town.

Emperor Haile selalssie’s Palace

The Palace of the Emperor Haile Selassie at Bizeit offers great views of the town and the lake, including where the Blue Nile flows from the Lake. The palace, although architecturally impressive, may not be entered.

Weyto Village

Weyto village, 2km west of town, is known for its production of Tankwa boats.

Birdwatching at Lake Tana

The lake’s wetlands provide an ideal habitat for a spectacular host of endemic bird life. The area is also a key location for birds migrating between Europe, Asia and Africa. More than 300 species have been recorded in and around the lake. Vast flocks of Great White Pelicans are a magnificent sight to behold, and you can also look out for endangered species such as the Black-crowned Crane and Wattled Crane, which frequent the landscapes and wetlands around the lake. Standing over a meter tall, these birds are an impressive sight! Other rare gems that may be spotted here are the elusive Yellow-fronted Parrot and brightly colored Half-collared Kingfisher.

Travel Tip

The time zone in Ethiopia is East Africa Time (EAT), GMT +3. Ethiopia has two seasons: a dry season (mid-September to May), and a rainy season (June to mid-September).

Modest dress is appropriate, especially when visiting sacred sites. Shoes must always be removed before entering churches or mosques, and women are requested to wear a head covering.

When in Bahir Dar

Key Attractions

Blue Nile Falls

Lake Tana

Lake Tana Monasteries

The Zege Peninsula

Emperor Haile selalssie’s Palace

Weyto Village

Weyto village, 2km west of town, is known for its production of Tankwa boats.

Birdwatching at Lake Tana

Where to say

Accommodations

Kuriftu Resort & Spa

Located on the shore of Lake Tana, Kuriftu Resort & Spa is a haven of luxury and tranquility. The 28 rooms, which include 2 presidential-type suites, are stylishly decorated, spacious and comfortable. All rooms are air-conditioned, have a private balcony, flat-screen TV and room service. The impressive entertainment deck has a large sparkling swimming pool and looks out over the lake – a perfect spot for lazy afternoons and sundowners! The restaurant offers a delicious selection of traditional Ethiopian and international fare. The organic spa provides a range of pampering treatments, which can be enjoyed in the evening for those who have been out all day exploring. Kuriftu Resort & Spa were awarded with a Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2020.

Blue Nile Hotel

Conveniently situated in the heart of Bahir Dar – only a few minutes’ walk from the lake, Blue Nile Hotel caters to leisure and business tourists alike. The hotel has 135 comfortable bedrooms, each equipped with Satellite TV and fast Wi-Fi.
Blue Nile Hotel is a reputable and popular meeting venue, with excellent facilities. The restaurant offers international and local cuisine, with 24-hour room service option. The garden and sun terrace offer beautiful views of the city and the lake beyond. Each room also has coffee/tea facility and mini-bar. The hotel’s spa provides a range of pampering treatments.