Bahir Dar (Ethiopia)

Bahir Dar is situated at the source of the Blue Nile. It is worth visiting even when the river runs low (outside the rainy season). The track leading to the waterfalls is very pretty, with lush green vegetation, black earth and red-orange water. You can go by boat, on foot or both.

Lake Tana is an integral part of the town. All around it you will find restaurants, bars with terraces and green spaces for relaxing (somewhat rare in Ethiopia). A footpath follows the water for some distance. It was lovely walking under the huge trees which grow alongside the path.

I suggest you also take a trip to one of the 30 islands on the lake, which is the largest in Ethiopia. They harbour orthodox churches which you can visit but beware of the prices charged. Ura Kidane Mehret and Betre Maryam were the prettiest in my opinion.