Ethiopia Amhara Region 2 tours

Blue Nile Falls (Tis Abay)

A thunderous 45-metre waterfall 30 km from Bahir Dar — 'Tis Abay' means 'water that smokes'.

Country

Ethiopia

Region

Amhara Region

Best time

August–September (peak flow); October–January (photogenic)

About Blue Nile Falls (Tis Abay)

The Blue Nile Falls plunge 45 metres over a 400-metre-wide escarpment at Tis Issat, near the village of Tis Abay 30 km south-east of Bahir Dar. Once known as one of the greatest waterfalls in Africa, a hydro-electric upstream has reduced dry-season flow, but the wet-season spectacle (July–September) is still breath-taking. A 17th-century Portuguese-built stone bridge leads to the viewpoint.

Highlights

  • 45-metre waterfall
  • 400-metre-wide rim
  • 17th-century Portuguese bridge
  • Boat + 45-minute walk from Bahir Dar
  • Peak flow Aug–Sep

Best time to visit

August–September (peak flow); October–January (photogenic)

Itineraries

Tours that visit Blue Nile Falls (Tis Abay)

Choose a curated departure or use any of these as a starting point — we'll tailor the itinerary, dates and pace to you.