Bahir Dar

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bahir Dar's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Lake Tana
morning
:

Start your day by taking a boat trip on Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake. Visit some of the ancient monasteries on the islands, like Ura Kidane Meheret.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a local lunch at a lakeside restaurant. Afterward, visit the Blue Nile Falls and marvel at its natural beauty.

evening
:

Relax with a stroll along the lakeshore as the sun sets. Sample traditional Ethiopian cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

day 2
Discover Blue Nile Falls
morning
:

Leave early for a trip to the Blue Nile Falls, also known as Tis Issat. Explore the scenic paths and enjoy the view of the roaring falls.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the falls. Capture the beauty of the falls with photographs and explore the surrounding nature trails.

evening
:

Return to Bahir Dar and unwind by the waterfront. Visit a local café for coffee and enjoy the ambiance of the evening.

day 3
Visit Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day exploring the vibrant local markets of Bahir Dar. Experience the colorful sights and sounds while shopping for spices and handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local restaurant and savor traditional dishes. Spend the afternoon visiting a cultural museum to learn about the region's history.

evening
:

Take a leisurely walk in the city center and enjoy street performances. Dinner at a popular restaurant will end your day on a high note.

day 4
Visit Monasteries
morning
:

Take a boat trip to the monasteries on Lake Tana, like Debre Maryam. Learn about the history and significance of these religious sites.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch on the boat or at a local spot. Spend the afternoon visiting a few more monasteries and appreciate their stunning artwork.

evening
:

Return to Bahir Dar for a relaxing evening. Explore local nightlife or enjoy a quiet dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

day 5
Nature Trekking
morning
:

Start with a guided trek in the nearby hills and enjoy breathtaking views. Take in the lush landscapes and observe local wildlife.

afternoon
:

After a morning hike, enjoy lunch with fresh local ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting nearby villages to experience local culture.

evening
:

Wind down the day by sharing stories with village locals. Have dinner with a family for an authentic experience.

day 6
Sunset Cruise
morning
:

Take a calm morning to relax by the lake or explore the city's attractions. A leisurely breakfast on the lakeshore is a perfect start.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon preparing for a sunset boat cruise. Pack a picnic to enjoy while you cruise on Lake Tana.

evening
:

Enjoy the stunning sunset on the boat with a glass of local wine. Return to shore and savor a dinner that reflects the day's adventures.

day 7
Culinary Experience
morning
:

Visit a local market to gather fresh ingredients for a cooking class. Learn about Ethiopian spices and flavors while preparing traditional dishes.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the meal you've prepared for lunch as a reward. Spend the afternoon sharing recipes and stories with your instructor.

evening
:

Explore a popular restaurant for dinner and try different Ethiopian dishes. Conclude the day with a taste of local coffee.

day 8
Viewpoints and Hills
morning
:

Start with a hike to a nearby viewpoint for panoramic views of Bahir Dar. Enjoy the fresh morning air and take beautiful photos.

afternoon
:

After the hike, have lunch in a local café. Spend the afternoon visiting nearby hills to explore more scenic views.

evening
:

Relax as the sun sets over the hills. Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant with live music to end your day.

day 9
Bird Watching
morning
:

Early morning is perfect for bird watching at Lake Tana's wetlands. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture unique bird species.

afternoon
:

Have lunch in a peaceful setting while enjoying nature. Spend the afternoon kayaking or canoeing in the calm waters.

evening
:

Return to Bahir Dar and visit a local bar for drinks. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and reflect on the day.

day 10
The Great Escapes
morning
:

Choose a scenic spot on Lake Tana for a morning meditation or yoga session. Embrace the tranquility of nature as you start your day.

afternoon
:

Find a cozy lakeside restaurant for lunch. Spend the afternoon lounging by the water, reading or simply soaking up the sun.

evening
:

As night falls, enjoy a casual dinner on the lakeshore. Conclude with a stargazing session to admire the night sky.

Discover Bahir Dar

Read more in our Bahir Dar 2024 Travel Guide.

Bahir Dar Travel Guide