20 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Bahir Dar | Dec 2025
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.title}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.description | description_string_length}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.reviews.combinedAverageRating.toFixed(2)}} ({{best_tourist_attraction_info.reviews.totalReviews}} reviews)
From {{best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPrice.toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPriceBeforeDiscount.toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
Save {{(best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPriceBeforeDiscount - best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPrice).toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
What activities can I do in Bahir Dar?
Bahir Dar, located on the southern shore of Lake Tana, is a vibrant city in Ethiopia known for its beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Here are some things to do in Bahir Dar: 1. Visit Lake Tana: Take a boat tour on Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia, and explore its numerous islands. Visit the ancient monasteries on the islands, such as Ura Kidane Mehret and Azwa Mariam, which house stunning religious artifacts and beautiful frescoes. 2. Blue Nile Falls: Also known as ""Tis Issat"" meaning ""smoking water,"" the Blue Nile Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located about 30 kilometers from Bahir Dar. Take a boat trip or hike to the falls and enjoy the stunning views and rainbows created by the cascading water. 3. Explore the Bahir Dar Market: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling Bahir Dar Market. Here, you can find a variety of goods, including traditional handicrafts, spices, textiles, and fresh produce. It's a great place to interact with locals and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city. 4. Visit the Bezawit Hill: Climb up Bezawit Hill to enjoy panoramic views of Bahir Dar and Lake Tana. There is a small church on top of the hill, and the sunset views from here are particularly stunning. 5. Take a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony: Experience the Ethiopian coffee culture by participating in a traditional coffee ceremony. Watch as the coffee beans are roasted, ground, and brewed in front of you, and enjoy the rich aroma and taste of freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee. 6. Explore the Bahir Dar Palace: Visit the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie, which has been converted into a museum. Explore the exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Ethiopia, including artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings of the emperor. 7. Try local cuisine: Bahir Dar offers a variety of delicious Ethiopian dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to try injera (a sourdough flatbread), doro wat (spicy chicken stew), kitfo (minced raw meat), and other traditional Ethiopian delicacies. 8. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Tana: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Tana during the golden hour. Watch the sun set over the lake and witness the stunning colors reflecting on the water. 9. Visit the Debre Sina Church: Located on a hill overlooking Bahir Dar, the Debre Sina Church is a significant religious site in the area. Admire the beautiful architecture of the church, which is adorned with colorful paintings and intricate carvings. 10. Explore the Zege Peninsula: Take a boat ride to the Zege Peninsula and explore the rural villages and monasteries in the area. Visit the Zege Monastery, known for its ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the peninsula. These are just a few of the many things to do in Bahir Dar. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Ethiopia.
When is the best time to travel to Bahir Dar?
The best time to travel to Bahir Dar, Ethiopia is during the dry season, which is from October to April. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. The dry season is also the best time to visit Lake Tana, the Blue Nile Falls, and take boat trips to the monasteries on the islands of the lake. However, it's worth noting that Bahir Dar can be quite busy with tourists during the peak season, especially in December and January. If you prefer to avoid crowds, you might consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of October-November or March-April when the weather is still good but there are fewer visitors. It's important to note that Bahir Dar experiences a short rainy season from June to September, which can lead to heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. During this time, some tourist activities may be affected, and the landscape may not be as green and lush as during the dry season. Overall, the best time to travel to Bahir Dar is during the dry season, from October to April, for the most enjoyable and hassle-free experience.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Bahir Dar
Bahir Dar is a city located on the southern shore of Lake Tana in Ethiopia. It is a popular tourist destination due to its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Here are some aspects of the travel culture in Bahir Dar: 1. Lake Tana: Lake Tana is the largest lake in Ethiopia and is known for its picturesque islands and monasteries. Visitors can take boat trips to explore the lake and visit the ancient monasteries, some of which date back to the 14th century. These monasteries are home to beautiful religious paintings, manuscripts, and ancient artifacts. 2. Blue Nile Falls: Also known as ""Tis Issat,"" the Blue Nile Falls is one of Ethiopia's most spectacular natural attractions. Located a short distance from Bahir Dar, visitors can take a boat trip or hike to the falls. The falls are particularly impressive during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak. 3. Traditional Music and Dance: Bahir Dar is known for its vibrant traditional music and dance scene. Visitors can enjoy live performances of traditional Ethiopian music and dance at various cultural centers and restaurants in the city. The music is characterized by the use of unique musical instruments such as the krar (a string instrument) and the masenqo (a single-stringed fiddle). 4. Local Cuisine: Bahir Dar offers a wide range of traditional Ethiopian dishes that visitors can savor. Injera, a sourdough flatbread, is a staple in Ethiopian cuisine and is typically served with various stews and vegetables. Visitors can also try local specialties such as doro wat (spicy chicken stew) and kitfo (minced raw meat). 5. Markets and Handicrafts: Bahir Dar has vibrant markets where visitors can explore and buy traditional Ethiopian handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The markets offer a variety of items, including woven baskets, pottery, traditional clothing, and jewelry. Bargaining is common in these markets, so visitors can try their negotiating skills to get a good deal. 6. Religious Festivals: Bahir Dar is home to a diverse mix of religious communities, including Ethiopian Orthodox Christians and Muslims. The city celebrates various religious festivals throughout the year, including Timket (Epiphany), Meskel (Finding of the True Cross), and Eid al-Fitr. These festivals are marked by colorful processions, traditional ceremonies, and feasts. Overall, Bahir Dar offers a unique travel experience that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and traditional Ethiopian hospitality. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, explore historical sites, enjoy traditional music and dance, and savor the flavors of Ethiopian cuisine.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Bahir Dar
When visiting Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, there are several shopping items or souvenirs that you can consider buying. Here are some suggestions: 1. Traditional Handwoven Textiles: Bahir Dar is known for its beautiful handwoven textiles made by local artisans. You can find a variety of colorful scarves, shawls, and blankets made from cotton or silk. These textiles make for great souvenirs and can also be used as decorative pieces in your home. 2. Ethiopian Coffee: Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and Bahir Dar has a thriving coffee culture. You can buy freshly roasted coffee beans or ground coffee from local coffee shops or markets. Ethiopian coffee is known for its rich flavor and unique brewing methods, making it a perfect souvenir for coffee lovers. 3. Traditional Pottery: Bahir Dar is also famous for its pottery craftsmanship. You can find beautifully handcrafted clay pots, bowls, and vases that showcase the local artistic skills. These pottery items can add an ethnic touch to your home decor or be used for serving food. 4. Jewelry and Accessories: Ethiopian jewelry is known for its intricate designs and use of colorful beads. You can find necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings made from silver, gold, or beads. These pieces of jewelry reflect the Ethiopian culture and can be a unique addition to your collection. 5. Traditional Musical Instruments: If you are interested in music, you can consider buying traditional Ethiopian musical instruments like the krar (a string instrument), the masinko (a single-stringed bowed instrument), or the washint (a bamboo flute). These instruments are not only beautiful but also represent the rich musical heritage of Ethiopia. 6. Local Handicrafts: Bahir Dar has a vibrant handicraft market where you can find a variety of locally made crafts. This includes woodcarvings, basketry, leather goods, and metalwork. These crafts are made using traditional techniques and reflect the cultural heritage of the region. Remember to bargain while shopping in local markets to get the best prices. Also, ensure that you are buying from reputable sellers to ensure the authenticity and quality of the products.
Bahir Dar travel review
Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: A Hidden Gem of Natural Beauty and Cultural Richness Nestled on the southern shore of Lake Tana, Bahir Dar is a picturesque city in Ethiopia that captivates travelers with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. Known as the gateway to the Blue Nile Falls and the monasteries of Lake Tana, Bahir Dar offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor. One of the main attractions in Bahir Dar is Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia and the source of the Blue Nile River. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are home to numerous species of fish and provide a tranquil setting for boat rides and fishing excursions. Exploring the lake on a traditional Ethiopian papyrus boat, known as a tankwa, is a must-do activity for visitors. As you glide across the calm waters, you will be greeted by breathtaking views of lush green islands, vibrant birdlife, and ancient monasteries that dot the shoreline. Speaking of monasteries, Lake Tana is renowned for its collection of over 30 monastic churches, some of which date back to the 14th century. These monasteries are not only architectural marvels but also treasure troves of religious artifacts and ancient manuscripts. Each monastery has its own unique charm, with intricately painted frescoes and beautifully carved wooden doors. A visit to Ura Kidane Mehret, Azwa Maryam, or Narga Selassie monastery is a journey back in time, where you can marvel at the spiritual devotion and artistic craftsmanship of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Another highlight of Bahir Dar is the majestic Blue Nile Falls, also known as ""Tis Issat"" or the ""Smoking Water."" Located just a short distance from the city, these falls are often referred to as the ""African Niagara"" due to their impressive size and power. As you approach the falls, you will hear the thunderous roar of water cascading down a 45-meter cliff, creating a mesmerizing spray that blankets the surrounding area. The best way to experience the falls is by taking a scenic hike through the lush countryside, where you can witness the sheer force and beauty of nature up close. Beyond its natural wonders, Bahir Dar is also a vibrant hub of Ethiopian culture and history. The city is home to several museums and cultural centers that offer insights into the country's rich heritage. The Ethiopian National Museum of Bahir Dar is a must-visit, showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, and ancient relics that tell the story of Ethiopia's past. Additionally, the city's vibrant markets, such as the Bahir Dar Market and the Thursday Market, are perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture, tasting traditional Ethiopian cuisine, and purchasing unique handicrafts as souvenirs. When it comes to accommodation, Bahir Dar offers a range of options to suit every traveler's needs. From luxury resorts with stunning lake views to budget-friendly guesthouses, there is something for everyone. The city's warm and welcoming locals are known for their hospitality, ensuring that visitors feel at home during their stay. In conclusion, Bahir Dar is a hidden gem in Ethiopia that offers an unforgettable travel experience. With its breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant culture, this city has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you are seeking tranquility on Lake Tana, adventure at the Blue Nile Falls, or a glimpse into Ethiopia's rich history, Bahir Dar will not disappoint. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to this enchanting city, where natural beauty and cultural richness converge in perfect harmony.