Bahir Dar is a city located in the Amhara region in northwestern Éthiopie. Highly appreciated by travelers for its welcoming atmosphere, its proximity to the Blue Nile river and Lake Tana certainly add to its appeal. Bahir Dar very often stands out as a flagship destination during a trip to Éthiopie.

History

Bahir Dar's history dates back to the sixteenth or seventeenth century, when Jesuit missionary Pedro Páez began erecting various stone buildings there. Emperor Tewodros used it as a base camp for his army in the nineteenth century. However, he did not stay long due to a major cholera epidemic. He moved his camp to Begemder.

Bahir Dar then fell into the hands of Italian troops in 1937, before the Royal Air Force bombed it in 1940. The Italian army, under Torelli's command, was pushed back to Gondar.

A palace was built in Bahir Dar during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie, who wished to make the city a capital, so much did he appreciate the beauty of the region. During the 1950s, the city contained only a few fishermen's homes. It was bounded by Debré Markos to the south and Gondar to the north.

Bahir Dar only began to develop after the construction of a hydroelectric dam near the town of Tis Abay. This construction allowed it to become a major industrial center on a national scale.

In 2002, UNESCO awarded Bahir Dar the label "City for Peace" in recognition of the municipality's efforts to implement a sustainable development policy that is environmentally respectful.

Stay in Bahir Dar

Situated on the south shore of Lake Tana, Bahir Dar is both an economic, commercial, and tourist hub. The resort town serves as the departure point for discovering Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls.

Bahir Dar is home to two major markets: one in the heart of the city, offering a wide range of colorful fabrics and essential goods. The other borders the road leading to Addis Ababa and stands as the crossroads of handmade basket artisans.

The local population is welcoming and warm. The uniformity of their dress is noticeable in the city's streets, especially among women who typically wear cotton dresses and small round pouches. When villagers return from the market, accompanied by their pets, the scene is simply enchanting.

On a small hill about 2 km from the city center, discover Emperor Haile Selassie's palace. This architectural marvel overlooks the river where you will spot a few colonies of hippopotamuses drinking. Part of the sovereign's private library is open to the public, as are the reception hall and bedroom.

Motorized boats await you on the shore of Lake Tana. These take care of transporting people and goods in collaboration with twankas. These are traditional boats made of papyrus that are primarily used to reach the small islands of Lake Tana.

By air

An airport serves the city. Service is provided by Ethiopian Airlines from Addis Ababa or Gondar.

By bus

The departure points for buses to Bahir Dar are located in Addis Ababa, Gondar, Debré Markos, and Debré Tabor.

Climate

Bahir Dar enjoys a warm and temperate climate, with summers receiving considerably more rainfall compared to winters. The annual temperature averages around 19.6°C. The average annual precipitation is 1,419 mm.

For getting around the city, opt for a bajaj (a sort of three-wheeled rickshaw). For 20 Birr, the vehicle will drop you anywhere in the city center. This inexpensive mode of transport is highly favored by locals.

If you enjoy cycling, rent a bicycle at very reasonable rates and explore the heart of the city and its surroundings at your leisure.

What to do and see in Bahir Dar?

• Savor the beauty of the Blue Nile Falls located 35 km from the city

• Enjoy boat trips on Lake Tana and discover the ancient monasteries located on the islands

• Appreciate the view of the Blue Nile from Emperor Haile Selassie's palace

• Visit the city's markets, etc.