Lake Tana

A 45-minute flight from Addis Abeba to Bahir Dar, Lake Tana is one of East Africa's most prominent natural jewels and one of the most beautiful lakes to visit in Ethiopia. Lake Tana is Ethiopia's largest lake, measuring 84 kilometers long, 66 kilometers wide, and 15 meters deep. The Blue Nile, a major tributary to the Nile, the world's largest river, begins its journey at Lake Tana and flows down the impressive Blue Nile Falls.

Tana's 37 islands and peninsulas are home to some of the world's oldest churches and monasteries, the most famous of which is Kebran Gabriel. This ancient church, which is thought to have been built in the 14th century, houses a museum with old paintings and manuscripts. It should be noted that only men are permitted to enter and visit this monastery, and it is no longer open to the public.

The Ura Kidane Mehret church is not as well-known as the Kebran Gabriel, but it is unquestionably the most beautiful in the Lake Tana region. This 14th-century church, founded by Saint Betre Maryiam, has a stunning interior decorated with frescos of the then-ruler of the Gojjam province, Tekle Haymanot. In contrast to the Kebran Gabriel, all genders are welcome to enter and visit the church, and it is open to the public.

Lake Tana is also famous for its fish, more than 70% of which are endemic to the lake. Birds can also be found in abundance around the lake. Recognizing its natural and cultural significance, UNESCO added Lake Tana to its list of Biosphere Reserves in 2015.