Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopian waterfall near Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
The Blue Nile Falls cascade down 42 meters in multiple streams, creating white water formations that stretch across 400 meters during rainy season.
Portuguese Jesuit missionary Pedro Paez documented the falls in 1613, marking one of the first European encounters with this natural formation.
The local name Tis Abaya means 'Smoke of Water' in Amharic, reflecting the mist and spray patterns visible from surrounding viewpoints.
A hydroelectric dam upstream affects water flow during dry seasons, making September through October the optimal months for experiencing maximum water volume.
The falls have contributed to Lake Tana's ecological isolation, leading to the development of distinct fish species found nowhere else in the Nile system.
Location: Amhara Region
Height: 42 m
Part of: Blue Nile
GPS coordinates: 11.48788,37.58757
Latest update: June 17, 2025 18:51
Ethiopia features medieval churches in Lalibela, mountain ranges in Simien National Park and ancient obelisks in Axum. The Danakil region displays sulfur springs and salt plains. The historic city of Harar Jugol and Bale Mountains complement the geological and cultural elements. Monasteries on Lake Tana islands, volcanic areas and national parks present the natural and architectural diversity of Ethiopia.
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