Lake Tana is Ethiopia's largest lake, set in the north-west of the country in Africa. It is the source of the Blue Nile, and its waters are a quiet place to spend a day or more.
Monasteries on the water
The lake holds more than 20 ancient monasteries, spread across its islands and along its shores. Some of them date back to the 13th century. Visitors come to see these religious sanctuaries, where monks have kept centuries-old manuscripts and religious art. Many of the sites are reached by boat, which makes the crossing part of the experience itself.
What a visit offers
- Boat trips across the lake to explore the island and shoreline monasteries
- Time with the monastic communities and their manuscripts and religious art
- Views over calm water fringed by papyrus marsh
- The chance to see the wildlife that makes its home in the surrounding wetlands
The lake is a good choice for travellers who want a slower pace and a sense of place rather than a single landmark to tick off. The tranquil setting and the mix of history, faith and natural surroundings give a visit its character, and a trip out on the water is the natural way to take it in.