Bahir Dar is 565 km from Addis Ababa has an elevation of 1830 m. above sea level, is located on the southern shores of Lake Tana from where excursions by boat can be made to the Lakes islands and peninsulas, the Blue Nile water falls are situated 32Km. south- east of Bahir Dar. The Lake Tana includes more than 30 islands and peninsulas, most of which shield ancient monasteries decorated with wonderful wall paintings that date back from 12th to 20th century.