Visiting Blue Nile Falls in Ethiopia

I had visited Bahir Dar for the sole purpose of seeing Blue Nile Falls and though the water levels were low in December, it was an extremely pleasant place to visit.

After a morning trip to the monasteries in Bahir Dar, I arranged for transportation to Blue Nile Falls in the afternoon. This can be done from your hotel or from any tour agency in the city, which is fairly cheap too.

Getting There..

From Bahir Dar, it took about an hour, but it seemed like an eternity. There were about 8 of us tightly squeezed in one van. We spent the bulk of the ride riding on dirt roads, which made for an uncomfortable ride.

We when arrived we were met by a group of young children asking for money, but eventually left after being chased away by locals.

Shortly after, I began my trek to the falls. I met a young man along the way who offered to take me around for $8. The landscape along the trail was stunning and virtually tourist free, while goats and donkeys roamed freely.

Later, we came across a rather long bridge, which we had to cross in order to reach the falls.

Blue Nile Falls

After crossing the bridge, we finally reached Blue Nile Falls. There wasn’t much water flowing around this time, but I knew that would be the case before I arrived, so I wasn’t too disappointed. In fact, due to a dam taking much of the water, Blue Nile Falls is no longer the massive flowing place it once was.

 

We continued our trek into the vast area until we reached a small village. Many of the locals thought I was Ethiopian, but upon seeing the camera wrapped around my neck and hearing me speak, they knew I was a foreigner. I told them I was from America and everyone smiled and shouted “Obama!” An older woman spoke to me but I could not comprehend what she was saying. My guide translated for me and informed me the woman had said “Welcome Home.”

I was shocked, these Ethiopian people saw me as an extension of their family. It was touching to hear such comments, but even more special since Ethiopia was the first African country I visited. After a brief conversation with the elders in the village we continued on until we reached a river. I sat by the river and drank some tea with my guide watching the sunset.

I loved Blue Nile Falls, not for the waterfall, but the area surrounding it. This area is one of the most peaceful places in Ethiopia. The landscape and tranquil atmosphere is something special. I’ll never forget the sense of peace I felt being here.