Exploring the lake by boat

At Lake Tana, “there’s nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as messing about in boats!” Renting a boat is one of the best ways to explore the lake and an experience you simply cannot miss on your visit to the lake.

Boat tours
There are lots of places where boat trips to the monasteries can be arranged. Hiring a reliable and informative guide will make the history of these beautiful buildings come alive. If you’re lucky, your guide will be able to show you some of the wildlife hotspots on the lake as well.

Reliable boats and guides can be hired from private organized boat owners or local guides. They can be found within the compound of Tana Transport Enterprise (close to the roundabout and St. George church in Bahir Dar) or in major hotels. In addition, Tana Transport Enterprise, a government owned company has  boats different capacity (e.g. for large groups) ready for hiring.

Papyrus boat hire
Tankwas, papyrus boats, can be hired by the more adventurous. Glide along the water’s surface at your own speed and watch the world go by. This is also the most sustainable method of transport as the raw materials, papyrus and eucalyptus, grow naturally around the lake. And of course it’s a lot of fun too!