Private Tour

Explore Lake Tana’s Ancient Monasteries and Blue Nile Falls

Overview

Available languages

English

Mobile ticket

Discover the Ancient Wonders of Bahir Dar: Lake Tana and Blue Nile Falls Tour

This tour allows you to explore the ancient monasteries of Lake Tana and the mighty Blue Nile Falls, located in the beautiful city of Bahir Dar, the capital of the Amhara Regional State and one of Ethiopia’s most stunning destinations.

Glide across Lake Tana, Ethiopia’s largest lake, to visit centuries old island monasteries that are adorned with vivid religious art and house sacred manuscripts.

Then, explore the mighty Blue Nile Falls and witness the "Smoking Water" locally known as "Tis Issat" where the Nile River crashes down in a thunderous spectacle. This breathtaking natural wonder is an experience few travelers get to enjoy up close.

You will also visit Bahir Dar’s colorful traditional market, where you can find authentic souvenirs and other local goods.

Book Now and Experience the Best of Bahir Dar in One Unforgettable Day!

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Boat ride fee

Ethiopian traditional Coffee

Bottles of drinking water

Ground Transport by latest 4WD or Van vehicle

Local guides fee

Entrance/admission fee

Pickup and drop-off services

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Food and drinks

Domestic air ticket (can be included upon request)

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

What To Expect

Lake Tana

Morning: Lake Tana Monasteries and Boat Cruise. Meet your guide and drive to the Lake Tana boat dock. Board the locally made motorboat and cruise across Ethiopia’s largest lake. Visit Ura Kidane Mihret, the most famous monastery with centuries-old murals and religious artifacts. Then Return to shore and savor freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee at a lakeside cafe.

3 hours • Admission Included

Blue Nile Falls

Midday: Blue Nile Falls Adventure Enjoy a one-hour scenic drive to the Blue Nile Falls, passing through lush countryside, quaint villages, and vibrant farmlands along the way. Embark on a 20-minute walk through emerald-green landscapes to reach the thundering 45 meter high falls, locally known as "Tis Issat" (meaning "Smoking Water"). Marvel at the dazzling rainbow mist and capture breathtaking photos of this natural wonder. Cross the 17th-century Portuguese Bridge. Take in panoramic views from the suspension bridge, which overlooks the dramatic Blue Nile Gorge. After your adventure, drive back to Bahir Dar and enjoy a relaxing lakeside lunch with stunning views.

4 hours • Admission Included

Options

Explore Lake Tana’s Ancient Monasteries and Blue Nile Falls

Pickup included

Reviews

4.50

2 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Lake Tana Monasteries
Dreamer01736846785,
May 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
we enjoyed the trip to lake tana monasteries. It was such a great time! we had lots of fun. We recommend tourist to visit the monastery of ura kidanemihret.
Day tour in Bahir Dar - to repeat if some discount applied for unfinished program
DuyuncA,
Jul 15, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
Well organized, i liked the initiative to change the rescheduling of Blue Nile to the morning due to the rainfall expected; but no time left to visit the island on Lake Tana due to lunch place inconvenience (not the tour organization’s fault; but a more result oriented approach is necessary); and the local market as it was already very late when we finished touring the lake. All in all, the price is significantly high but the comfort and attention to the needs are fine. No complimentary tea or coffee as mentioned on the program. Some details missing regarding information given; but it was enjoyable all in all.