Known locally as ‘Tis Abay’ meaning ‘Great Smoke’, the Blue Nile Falls are a testimony to Ethiopia’s natural beauty. The Blue Nile Falls are the most dramatic falls anywhere on the Nile river system, and are at their most impressive in the rainy season from June to early September.

The Falls

The Blue Nile river, which emanates from the nearby Lake Tana, cascades down a 42m-high drop to produce a dazzling spray of mist and rainbows. In the rainy season, when the falls are at their strongest, it’s easy to see why the locals call it ‘Tis Abay’ meaning ‘the Great Smoke’ in Amharic.

Hiking trails

The paths that lead to the falls wind through beautiful, verdant countryside and across a 17th century bridge (the first bridge to span the Blue Nile). There are a few routes to choose from, and it’s an hour or so each way.

Bahir Dar

Bahir Dar is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Tana, and your base for exploring the Blue Nile Falls. Bahir Dar is often the first stop on Ethiopia’s northern circuit. From here, you can take a boat trip out on to Lake Tana to explore the ancient island monasteries, before heading off to visit the falls in the afternoon.

Bird life

The countryside around the falls is a great birding destination (make sure to pack a pair of binoculars!). There are a number of endemic species in the area, including the wattled ibis.