Lake Tana: Ethiopia's Inland Sea
Explore Ethiopia's largest lake: Discover ancient monasteries, diverse wildlife, and the source of the Blue Nile in the heart of the Amhara region.
Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake and the source of the Blue Nile, is a mesmerizing inland sea dotted with island monasteries and diverse wildlife. Explore ancient churches, spot hippos and pelicans, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Amhara region.
A brief summary to Lack tana
- Lake Tana, ET
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Hire a boat from Bahir Dar to explore the lake's monasteries; negotiate the price beforehand.
- Visit during the dry season (November to February) for pleasant weather.
- Respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching and spotting hippos.
- Try the local fish dishes served in restaurants around Bahir Dar.
Getting There
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Boat
The primary way to explore Lake Tana and its monasteries is by boat from Bahir Dar. Head to the Marine Authority compound or the Lake Tana Tour Guide Association to arrange a boat trip. Negotiate the price, which typically ranges from ETB 1500-3000 (USD 25-50) for a half-day tour, depending on the number of monasteries visited and the size of the boat. Some hotels can also arrange boat tours. Be sure to confirm which monasteries are included in the tour and whether entrance fees (typically ETB 100 per monastery) are included.
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Public Transport
To reach Bahir Dar, you can take a bus from Addis Ababa. Several 'luxury' bus companies, such as Selam Bus, Skybus, and Ethio Bus, operate daily services. The journey takes 10-12 hours and costs around ETB 350 (USD 6). Buses depart early in the morning, around 5 am. Alternatively, Ethiopian Airlines offers flights to Bahir Dar from Addis Ababa. Check for potential discounts if you flew into Ethiopia with the airline.
Discover more about Lack tana
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
የደምቢያ ሓይቅ (Lake Dembea)
11.4 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
38.0 km
Discover the spiritual serenity of Kibrian Gebriel Monastery in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, where tradition and tranquility converge in a stunning setting.
Abay Minch Lodge
42.5 km
Discover the beauty of Lake Tana at Abay Minch Lodge, where serene landscapes meet warm Ethiopian hospitality in Bahir Dar.
Tana Hotel
43.1 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Tana Hotel, your serene retreat in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, near the stunning Lake Tana and cultural treasures.
Blue Nile Resort Hotel
43.2 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and natural beauty at Blue Nile Resort Hotel, your perfect getaway in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
JACARANDA HOTEL ,BAHIR DAR
43.6 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
43.8 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Kuriftu Resort and Spa Bahir Dar, a stunning destination by Lake Tana for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Homeland Hotel
43.9 km
Discover the beauty of Bahir Dar while enjoying a comfortable stay at Homeland Hotel, your home away from home in Ethiopia.
Unison Hotel
44.1 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and hospitality at Unison Hotel in Bahir Dar, the perfect gateway to Ethiopia's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Bahir Dar Belay Zeleke International Airport
44.2 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.
Ethio Nile Tours
44.2 km
Discover the cultural and natural treasures of Ethiopia with Ethio Nile Tours, your trusted guide to Bahir Dar's breathtaking landscapes and heritage.
Yotor Travel
44.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of Bahir Dar with Yotor Travel, your expert tour agency in Ethiopia.
Naky Hotel
44.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Bahir Dar at Naky Hotel, your perfect base for exploring Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls.
Rahnile Hotel
44.3 km
Experience the charm of Bahir Dar at Rahnile Hotel, where comfort meets Ethiopian hospitality amidst stunning lakeside views.
Bravo Ethiopia Tours
44.3 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
አበያ ረግረጋማ ቦታ/ Abeya Swampy place
3.7 km
Explore the lush beauty and biodiversity of Abeya Swampy Place, a hidden gem in Ethiopia perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
ይላስ መጣያ አካባቢያዊ ፏፏቴ/Yilas Metaya Local Fall
3.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Yilas Metaya Local Fall, a hidden gem in Ethiopia's stunning natural landscape.
yoni's & Li's spot
12.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Yoni's & Li's Spot, a tranquil garden by Lake Tana, perfect for relaxation amidst nature's splendor.
Lake Tana
12.1 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.
Tana Qirqos
16.7 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Tana Qirqos Island, a serene retreat in the heart of Ethiopia's Lake Tana.
Dek Island
17.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Dek Island, a hidden Ethiopian gem perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts looking for a peaceful escape.
Narga Selassie
19.8 km
Explore the stunning Narga Selassie, an architectural gem in Adahunat, showcasing Ethiopia's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
አንበሳሜ፣ እስቴና ስማዳ መገንጠያ
28.1 km
Explore the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Hamusit, a must-visit tourist attraction in Ethiopia, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Wanzaye Detour
29.6 km
Explore the captivating landscapes and rich culture of Wanzaye Detour, a must-see tourist attraction in Dimbiso, Ethiopia.
ye bilata zewdu mender
29.9 km
Experience the rich culture and stunning landscapes at Ye Bilata Zewdu Mender, a captivating tourist attraction in Wereta, Ethiopia.
Gelila Zakarias Island
30.7 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Gelila Zakarias Island in Tuhuwa Hana, a hidden gem in Ethiopia's breathtaking landscapes.
Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery (ኡራ ኪዳነ ምሕረት ገዳም)
33.8 km
Explore Ura Kidane Mihret Monastery, a serene sanctuary of art and faith in Zege, rich with Ethiopian Orthodox history and breathtaking lake views.
Azwa St. Maryam Church | አዝዋ ቅድስት ማርያም ቤተክርስቲያን
34.1 km
Experience the spiritual beauty of Azwa St. Maryam Church in Bahir Dar, a stunning testament to Ethiopia's Orthodox Christian heritage and culture.
Wanzaye Hotspring
36.9 km
Experience natural relaxation at Wanzaye Hotspring in Dilala, Ethiopia, where tranquil waters and stunning landscapes await every visitor.
የደብሳን ግንብ debsan castle
40.0 km
Explore the historical grandeur of Debsan Castle in Ethiopia, a captivating tourist attraction surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Essential places to dine
Gorgora Port Hotel & Restaurant
29.9 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian flavors with stunning lake views at Gorgora Port Hotel & Restaurant - a true gem on Lake Tana's shores.
BDU Zenzelima Café
41.7 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at BDU Zenzelima Café in Bahir Dar, where local culture meets delicious cuisine.
Dahlak Fish Restaurant | ዳህላክ ዓሣ ቤት
42.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ethiopian seafood at Dahlak Fish Restaurant in Bahir Dar—where tradition meets taste.
Gech Fresh Fish Restaurant | ጌች ትኩስ ዓሣ ቤት
42.6 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian seafood at Gech Fresh Fish Restaurant in Bahir Dar, where fresh flavors meet warm hospitality.
Goh cafe and restaurant
43.2 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Goh Cafe and Restaurant in Bahir Dar – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Caron Pension
43.3 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at Caron Pension in Bahir Dar - where every meal tells a story.
Grand Hotel & Resort
43.6 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
43.6 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
43.7 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
43.7 km
Savor the authentic taste of Ethiopia at Misrak Restaurant in Bahir Dar - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Laounge
43.7 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at Laounge in Bahir Dar – where every meal tells a story.
John Fish Restaurant
43.7 km
Discover Bahir Dar's culinary gem at John Fish Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets authentic Ethiopian flavors in a warm atmosphere.
Moon light
43.7 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Moon Light Restaurant with breathtaking views of Lake Tana.
Bet Diplomat
43.8 km
Discover Bahir Dar's culinary gem at Bet Diplomat – where authentic Ethiopian flavors meet warm hospitality.
Lake Avenue Hotel-Bahirdar
43.8 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
Essa Mekonene Shop
28.4 km
Discover the authentic charm of Essa Mekonene Shop, where traditional Ethiopian goods meet vibrant local culture in Hamusit Mender.
SOL
41.0 km
Discover SOL in Bahir Dar: A Furniture Store Celebrating Ethiopian Artistry with Unique Pieces for Every Home.
ከፋለ ባዬ ሸቀጣሸቀጥ ሽያጭ
42.7 km
Discover the charm of Gabgarbit at ከፋለ ባዬ ሸቀጣሸቀጥ ሽያጭ, a vibrant store showcasing local culture and unique products.
Local Market
42.8 km
Discover the heart of Kunizila Town at the Local Market, where vibrant culture, fresh produce, and artisanal crafts come together.
Kunzila town
43.0 km
Explore Kunzila Town, a hidden gem in Ethiopia, where modern electronics meet vibrant local culture and authentic cuisine.
DAFA B
43.3 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
43.5 km
Discover the rich flavors of Ethiopian pastries at Kalab's Home, a cozy bakery in Bahir Dar that offers a delightful culinary experience.
Abay Table Salt whole sale & retail shop
43.6 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Bahir Dar at Abay Table Salt, where local commerce and culinary heritage meet in a unique shopping experience.
አቢ እናና
43.6 km
Explore አቢ እናና in Bahir Dar, where exceptional home audio solutions meet a passion for sound and music.
መሲ ባልትና Mesi Baltina
43.7 km
Explore Mesi Baltina in Bahir Dar for unique home goods and handcrafted souvenirs that celebrate Ethiopian culture and artistry.
Wude Coffee
43.9 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
43.9 km
Explore Bahiru Gift Shop in Bahir Dar for unique Ethiopian gifts, handcrafted treasures, and a taste of local culture. Perfect for memorable souvenirs.
House of z great Jupiter
44.0 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.
እልፍኝ የባህል አልባሳት/ELFIGN CULTURAL DRESSING/
44.1 km
Discover the essence of Ethiopian culture through vibrant traditional clothing and unique accessories at ELFIGN Cultural Dressing in Bahir Dar.
DEYA BRAND ORIGINAL BRAND SHOES ደያ ብራንድ
44.2 km
Explore Deya Brand Original Brand Shoes in Bahir Dar for unique, high-quality footwear reflecting Ethiopian culture and craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lounge
41.6 km
Discover the serene Lounge in Bahir Dar, where you can unwind and enjoy local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Tg fish cafe
42.9 km
Experience Bahir Dar's culinary delight at Tg Fish Cafe, where fresh fish meets Ethiopian hospitality in a cozy atmosphere.
Tsion restaurant
43.2 km
Discover the essence of Ethiopian culture at Tsion Restaurant in Bahir Dar, where traditional flavors meet a vibrant bar atmosphere.
Castel Kuriftu Wina Bar
43.7 km
Discover the charm of Castel Kuriftu Wina Bar in Bahir Dar, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking views of Lake Tana.
Do 3 brothers
43.7 km
Discover the vibrant energy of Bahir Dar at Do 3 Brothers, where local culture meets a lively bar experience.
Kokel Coffee House
43.9 km
Experience the serenity of Lake Tana at Kokel Coffee House, where exquisite coffee meets breathtaking views in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
Bar
43.9 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.
Mac sub lounge
43.9 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.
Limalemo Bar
44.1 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
44.1 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
44.1 km
Discover the heart of Ethiopian culture at Amsale Mitike, a vibrant bar in Bahir Dar offering traditional drinks and lively entertainment.
Miracle Lounge
44.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Miracle Lounge in Bahir Dar, where great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Hiber restaurant
44.1 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Hiber Restaurant in Bahir Dar, a must-visit culinary gem.
Banchu Grocery and Snack
44.2 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors and vibrant local culture at Banchu Grocery and Snack in Bahir Dar.
Climax
44.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Climax Bar in Bahir Dar, a perfect blend of local flavors and lively ambiance.
