Bahir Dar is one of the leading tourist destinations in Ethiopia with a variety of attractions in the nearby Lake Tana and Blue Nile river.

Bahir Dar is situated on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile (or Abay). On the islands of the lake there are some of the world's oldest churches and monasteries. There are plenty of boat tours available to the monastaries; these range from 2 to 12 hours in length and can be booked through your hotel or by one of the many touts in the city. It is also possible to charter your own boat so you can choose which churches and islands you wish to see. In some of these monasteries, women are not allowed to enter. Be cautious and aware of the traditions and rules of the Ethiopian Orthodox church when you visit.

Lake Tana is the source of the Blue Nile. If you take a boat trip ask the 'driver' to take you to the place where the river flows out of the lake. It is very atmospheric, and probably the best place to spot Hippo.