The Enchanting Serenity of Lake Tana
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake, a serene escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake, is a breathtaking destination renowned for its stunning vistas, rich biodiversity, and historical significance. This serene body of water offers tourists a chance to explore ancient monasteries, enjoy boat rides, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
A brief summary to Lake Tana
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Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth exploration of the monasteries and wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
- Try local dishes at nearby restaurants to fully experience the culture of the region.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from Bahir Dar, head southwest on the A3 highway. After approximately 30 kilometers, you will reach the entrance to Lake Tana. Follow the signs leading to the lakeshore area, where you can find various access points to the lake.
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Public Transportation (Minibus)
From Gojjam, catch a minibus heading to Bahir Dar. These minibuses frequently depart from central bus stations. The journey to Bahir Dar takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, costing approximately 30-50 Ethiopian Birr. Upon reaching Bahir Dar, you can take a local taxi or another minibus to the lakeside, which will cost around 20-30 Ethiopian Birr.
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Boat
Once you reach the lakeside area of Lake Tana in Bahir Dar, you can hire a boat for a tour of the lake and its islands. Boat rentals are available at various points along the shore, and prices vary depending on the duration and type of tour, typically ranging from 200 to 1000 Ethiopian Birr.
Discover more about Lake Tana
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
የደምቢያ ሓይቅ (Lake Dembea)
0.8 km
Discover Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake, a treasure trove of ancient monasteries, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity waiting to be explored.
Kibrian Gebriel monastery
42.2 km
Discover the spiritual serenity of Kibrian Gebriel Monastery in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, where tradition and tranquility converge in a stunning setting.
Bahir Dar Belay Zeleke International Airport
47.1 km
Discover the gateway to Ethiopia's natural beauty at Bahir Dar Belay Zeleke International Airport, your start to Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls.
Blue Nile Resort Hotel
47.7 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and natural beauty at Blue Nile Resort Hotel, your perfect getaway in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
Abay Minch Lodge
48.0 km
Discover the beauty of Lake Tana at Abay Minch Lodge, where serene landscapes meet warm Ethiopian hospitality in Bahir Dar.
Homeland Hotel
48.0 km
Discover the beauty of Bahir Dar while enjoying a comfortable stay at Homeland Hotel, your home away from home in Ethiopia.
Tana Hotel
48.0 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Tana Hotel, your serene retreat in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, near the stunning Lake Tana and cultural treasures.
JACARANDA HOTEL ,BAHIR DAR
48.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Bahir Dar at Jacaranda Hotel, a perfect blend of comfort and local culture near Lake Tana.
Kuriftu Resort and Spa Bahir Dar
48.4 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Kuriftu Resort and Spa Bahir Dar, a stunning destination by Lake Tana for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Unison Hotel
48.7 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and hospitality at Unison Hotel in Bahir Dar, the perfect gateway to Ethiopia's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Gojjam Hunegnaw
48.9 km
Experience the charm of Bahir Dar at Gojjam Hunegnaw, your comfortable retreat for exploring Ethiopia's natural wonders and cultural treasures.
Yotor Travel
49.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of Bahir Dar with Yotor Travel, your expert tour agency in Ethiopia.
Olive Hotel and Spa
49.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Olive Hotel and Spa in Bahir Dar, a gateway to stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Ethio Nile Tours
49.0 km
Discover the cultural and natural treasures of Ethiopia with Ethio Nile Tours, your trusted guide to Bahir Dar's breathtaking landscapes and heritage.
Bravo Ethiopia Tours
49.0 km
Discover the beauty and culture of Ethiopia with Bravo Ethiopia Tours in Bahir Dar, your trusted partner for unforgettable travel experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Tana
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake, a serene escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
ይላስ መጣያ አካባቢያዊ ፏፏቴ/Yilas Metaya Local Fall
10.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yilas Metaya Local Fall in Ethiopia, a serene escape into nature's splendor and a must-visit tourist attraction.
አበያ ረግረጋማ ቦታ/ Abeya Swampy place
10.7 km
Explore the lush beauty of Abeya Swampy Place in Ethiopia, where nature meets tranquility and cultural richness awaits every visitor.
Lack tana
12.1 km
Explore the enchanting Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake, rich in biodiversity and ancient monasteries, perfect for nature lovers and cultural adventurers.
Dek Island
12.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Dek Island, a hidden gem in Ethiopia's stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Narga Selassie
13.9 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Narga Selassie, a serene church on Dek Island, Adahunat, perfect for spiritual reflection.
Gelila Zakarias Island
19.6 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Gelila Zakarias Island, a hidden paradise in Ethiopia that invites exploration and relaxation.
Tana Qirqos
27.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Tana Qirqos Island, a serene retreat in the heart of Ethiopia's Lake Tana.
GILEGEL ABAY (As Victoria nile)
35.8 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Gilegel Abay, where the Victoria Nile flows majestically amidst rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Ayalew Kasse Empires የ አያሌው ካሴ ግዛት
36.3 km
Discover the exquisite beauty and rich cultural heritage of Ayalew Kasse Empires, a premier tourist attraction in Ethiopia.
Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery (ኡራ ኪዳነ ምሕረት ገዳም)
37.1 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and serene beauty of Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery, a hidden gem on Lake Tana's Zege Peninsula.
Azwa St. Maryam Church | አዝዋ ቅድስት ማርያም ቤተክርስቲያን
37.8 km
Explore the captivating Azwa St. Maryam Church in Bahir Dar, a gem of Ethiopian Orthodox heritage surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich culture.
አንበሳሜ፣ እስቴና ስማዳ መገንጠያ
38.7 km
Explore the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Hamusit, a must-visit tourist attraction in Ethiopia, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Etege Mentewab Heritage
39.1 km
Explore Etege Mentewab Heritage in Wemberya, a captivating tourist attraction celebrating the rich cultural history of Ethiopia's royal past.
Wanzaye Detour
41.3 km
Discover Wanzaye Detour, a stunning tourist attraction in Dimbiso, Ethiopia, where nature meets culture in an unforgettable experience.
Essential places to dine
Gorgora Port Hotel & Restaurant
23.6 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian flavors with stunning lake views at Gorgora Port Hotel & Restaurant - a true gem on Lake Tana's shores.
Gech Fresh Fish Restaurant | ጌች ትኩስ ዓሣ ቤት
47.0 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian seafood at Gech Fresh Fish Restaurant in Bahir Dar, where fresh flavors meet warm hospitality.
Dahlak Fish Restaurant | ዳህላክ ዓሣ ቤት
47.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ethiopian seafood at Dahlak Fish Restaurant in Bahir Dar—where tradition meets taste.
Goh cafe and restaurant
47.4 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Goh Cafe and Restaurant in Bahir Dar – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Caron Pension
47.6 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at Caron Pension in Bahir Dar - where every meal tells a story.
Selihom Cafe And Restorant
48.0 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at Selihom Cafe and Restaurant in Bahir Dar, where every meal tells a story.
Enabe Coffee Shop
48.0 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian coffee at Enabe Coffee Shop in Bahir Dar - where every cup tells a story.
John Fish Restaurant
48.1 km
Discover Bahir Dar's culinary gem at John Fish Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets authentic Ethiopian flavors in a warm atmosphere.
Grand Hotel & Resort
48.2 km
Experience luxury and hospitality at Grand Hotel & Resort in Bahir Dar – your gateway to Ethiopia's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Bahir Dar Breeze
48.2 km
Discover the best fusion of Ethiopian and Caribbean cuisine at Bahir Dar Breeze, where every bite tells a story amidst breathtaking views.
Hani Juice
48.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Ethiopia at Hani Juice in Bahir Dar - a refreshing stop for travelers seeking delicious juices and local hospitality.
Misrak Restaurant ምስራቅ ልዩ ምግብ
48.3 km
Savor the authentic taste of Ethiopia at Misrak Restaurant in Bahir Dar - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Andromeda Butchery and restaurant
48.4 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Andromeda Butchery and Restaurant in Bahir Dar—where tradition meets flavor.
Bet Diplomat
48.4 km
Discover Bahir Dar's culinary gem at Bet Diplomat – where authentic Ethiopian flavors meet warm hospitality.
Lake Avenue Hotel-Bahirdar
48.4 km
Discover comfort and culture at Lake Avenue Hotel-Bahirdar, your gateway to exploring Ethiopia's stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ከፋለ ባዬ ሸቀጣሸቀጥ ሽያጭ
33.6 km
Discover the charm of Gabgarbit at ከፋለ ባዬ ሸቀጣሸቀጥ ሽያጭ, a vibrant store showcasing local culture and unique products.
Local Market
33.8 km
Discover the heart of Kunizila Town at the Local Market, where vibrant culture, fresh produce, and artisanal crafts come together.
Kunzila town
33.9 km
Explore Kunzila Town, a hidden gem in Ethiopia, where modern electronics meet vibrant local culture and authentic cuisine.
Essa Mekonene Shop
38.9 km
Discover the authentic charm of Essa Mekonene Shop, where traditional Ethiopian goods meet vibrant local culture in Hamusit Mender.
SOL
46.5 km
Discover SOL in Bahir Dar: A Furniture Store Celebrating Ethiopian Artistry with Unique Pieces for Every Home.
DAFA B
47.5 km
Discover unique home goods and local crafts at DAFA B in Bahir Dar, a true representation of Ethiopian artistry and culture.
Kalab's home
47.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of Ethiopian pastries at Kalab's Home, a cozy bakery in Bahir Dar that offers a delightful culinary experience.
መሲ ባልትና Mesi Baltina
47.8 km
Explore Mesi Baltina in Bahir Dar for unique home goods and handcrafted souvenirs that celebrate Ethiopian culture and artistry.
House of z great Jupiter
48.3 km
Explore the House of Great Jupiter in Bahir Dar for the latest in electronics and a vibrant shopping experience that caters to all your tech needs.
Eyube Abebe
48.3 km
Explore Eyube Abebe in Bahir Dar for authentic Ethiopian crafts and local delicacies, a true cultural experience in the heart of Ethiopia.
Wude Coffee
48.5 km
Experience the heart of Ethiopian coffee culture at Wude Coffee, where every sip tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Bahiru Gift shop ባህሩ የስጦታ እቃዎች መደብር
48.5 km
Explore Bahiru Gift Shop in Bahir Dar for unique Ethiopian gifts, handcrafted treasures, and a taste of local culture. Perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Empire Auto shop
48.7 km
Discover exceptional vehicle care at Empire Auto Shop in Bahir Dar, where expert maintenance meets traveler needs for a smooth journey.
እልፍኝ የባህል አልባሳት/ELFIGN CULTURAL DRESSING/
48.8 km
Discover the essence of Ethiopian culture through vibrant traditional clothing and unique accessories at ELFIGN Cultural Dressing in Bahir Dar.
nati's shop
48.8 km
Discover the heart of Ethiopian craftsmanship at Nati's Shop in Bahir Dar, where unique souvenirs and cultural treasures await every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tsion restaurant
47.5 km
Discover the essence of Ethiopian culture at Tsion Restaurant in Bahir Dar, where traditional flavors meet a vibrant bar atmosphere.
Tg fish cafe
48.1 km
Experience Bahir Dar's culinary delight at Tg Fish Cafe, where fresh fish meets Ethiopian hospitality in a cozy atmosphere.
Mac sub lounge
48.2 km
Discover a unique blend of relaxation and local culture at Mac Sub Lounge in Bahir Dar, where comfort meets style in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lounge
48.2 km
Discover the serene Lounge in Bahir Dar, where you can unwind and enjoy local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Kokel Coffee House
48.6 km
Experience the serenity of Lake Tana at Kokel Coffee House, where exquisite coffee meets breathtaking views in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
Bar
48.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bahir Dar with its lively bars, local drinks, and rich cultural atmosphere that invites tourists to unwind and socialize.
Castel Kuriftu Wina Bar
48.6 km
Discover the charm of Castel Kuriftu Wina Bar in Bahir Dar, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking views of Lake Tana.
Limalemo Bar
48.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Limalemo Bar in Bahir Dar, where culture and refreshment blend seamlessly for an unforgettable night out.
Ras Dashen Pub
48.8 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Ethiopia at Ras Dashen Pub in Bahir Dar, where local drinks and lively atmosphere await every traveler.
Amsale mitike cultural entertainment
48.8 km
Discover the heart of Ethiopian culture at Amsale Mitike, a vibrant bar in Bahir Dar offering traditional drinks and lively entertainment.
Hiber restaurant
48.8 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Hiber Restaurant in Bahir Dar, a must-visit culinary gem.
Banchu Grocery and Snack
48.9 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors and vibrant local culture at Banchu Grocery and Snack in Bahir Dar.
Negadres beka
48.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bahir Dar at Negadres Beka, a local bar offering a delightful atmosphere and a taste of Ethiopia.
Climax
48.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Climax Bar in Bahir Dar, a perfect blend of local flavors and lively ambiance.
Club Paris
49.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Club Paris in Bahir Dar, a must-visit bar for tourists seeking a taste of Ethiopia's nightlife.
