Lake Tana Travel Guide: Top Sights in Ethiopia, Tours & Travel Advice

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Lake Tana- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; Ethiopia; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 48 hours

Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia, is a breathtaking body of water nestled in the Amhara Region, known for being the source of the Blue Nile. Spanning approximately 3,500 square kilometers, it boasts a rich biodiversity and is surrounded by lush wetlands that support a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species and hippos. The lake is dotted with islands that feature ancient monasteries and churches, showcasing Ethiopia's deep religious heritage and housing invaluable ecclesiastical treasures. In addition to its historical and cultural importance, Lake Tana serves as a vital resource for local communities, providing water for agriculture, fishing, and hydroelectric power, thus playing a key role in the region's economy and ecology.

Operators offering tours in Ethiopia

Attractions in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa

Lalibela

4.6

Simien

Danakil

Omo Valley

Aksum

Bahir Dar

Harar

Reviews of Lake Tana

CK Cheong

4
Reviewed: 2023-07-08

Huge lake with more than 30 islands and a majority of them have churches on the island. This is really unusual and highlights the importance of Christianity in Ethiopia. Didn't expect the lake to be so big requiring more than an hour boat ride to reach some of the islands. Interesting to learn that Lake Tana was formed by volcanic activity!
Meklit Bekele

5
Reviewed: 2023-05-03

Lake Tana is my number 1 favorite lake in Ethiopia, I never get tired of looking at the beautiful lake wave. I studied in Bahir Dar University at Poly Campus, so I had the chance to stay in that city for about 5 years, and the lake view was my favorite view, beside the nile waterfall of course 😅. Everyone should plan on visiting Bahir Dar to see this magnificent water view!!
Abdullah Al Rana Farhad

5
Reviewed: 2023-04-01

I just love this lake. It has amazing land scape. The water is blue and very comfortable to swim. I saw lots of birds around which is scenic to watch. I saw hippo in there. There are tourist boats to have a tour around. If you want to hire, please bargain hard. Must carry drinking water and foods like light snacks.
Fitalew Bahiru

4
Reviewed: 2022-01-06

Being at Lake Tana really refreshes your soul. Don't forget eating fish in the near by restaurants. I had a good meal at YESHI FRESH ASSA :) የሺ ትኩስ አሣ around st. Michael Church.
Melissa Schimanek

3
Reviewed: 2019-08-19

It’s a nice lake but honestly not so special. You can see hippos in one place, which is nice. The monestries are also nice and you see how the locals live there. But its ridiculous how they overcharge the souvenirs there. The rides are long and boring.