Bahir Dar Airport serves the city on the shores of Lake Tana, Ethiopia's largest lake, a few kilometers from the center.
It is the access point to the historical monasteries of Lake Tana islands and to the Blue Nile Falls, among the country's most spectacular natural attractions.
How to get to Bahir Dar Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to BJR
Parking near Bahir Dar Airport
Right in front of the terminal sits a modest parking area.
Parking prices remain average, not steep.
How to get to Bahir Dar from BJR
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Bahir Dar Airport
Car rental options are limited; most visitors organize boat excursions on Lake Tana through their hotel.
Keep your license, passport, and credit card handy.
Hotels near Bahir Dar Airport
City center, market and stadium
About 15 minutes by taxi or bajaj from the airport (8 km); some hotels in the area also offer their own shuttle to the terminal.
Best for: For those who want restaurants, shops and the central market within easy reach, with the international stadium as a landmark.
- Central market and shops within walking distance of the Delano Hotel
- A flat, well-served area, convenient even by bajaj
- The lake and the Blue Nile Bridge remain 10-15 minutes on foot or a short ride away
- Traffic on the central boulevard stays lively until evening
Recommended hotels
- Delano Hotel Opposite the largest stadium in East Africa, 5 minutes on foot from the market and 11 from the Blue Nile Bridge; 53 rooms with balcony, fitness center, sauna and an in-house nightclub. View availability
- Lakemark Hotel and Tour Service Bahir Dar On Felege Hiwot Road, attached to the city's convention center, about 5 minutes' drive from the lakeshore; 30 air-conditioned rooms, free airport shuttle, and tours to the islands of Lake Tana. View availability
- Lake Avenue Hotel Mid-range hotel right in the center, with restaurant, bar and free airport shuttle. View availability
Lakefront and the Blue Nile Bridge
About 20 minutes by taxi from the airport (9-10 km); from here both the Blue Nile Bridge and St. George's Church are within walking distance.
Best for: For those who want the lake and nearby churches within walking distance, or a cheap hostel for backpackers.
- The Blue Nile Bridge and St. George's Church within a 5-minute walk from several hotels
- Several budget hostels just steps from the lakeshore
- A less central area for shops and evening life compared to the market
- The hostels have shared dorms: little privacy for those not used to it
Recommended hotels
- Rah-nile Hotel Over 40 rooms and two bars 5 minutes on foot from the Blue Nile Bridge and St. George's Church, about 8 km from the airport; in-house spa and an international-standard restaurant. View availability
- Yiganda Hotel, Safari Tours Garden and terrace with lake views according to reviews, about 6 km from the airport; organizes excursions to the monasteries on the islands of Lake Tana, to Gondar and to the Simien Mountains. View availability
- Manuhie Backpackers Lodge Hostel about 300 meters from the city center, on the road that runs along the shore of Lake Tana; a budget option for backpackers. View availability
- Bahir Dar Backpackers Two dorms (4 and 6 beds) plus private rooms, garden and free bikes, just steps from the lake. View availability
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
In 2026, a new terminal was inaugurated, the second largest in Ethiopia after Addis Ababa.
It's best to be at the airport with 2 hours of buffer time if traveling on flights.
Map of Bahir Dar Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. What can you see on Lake Tana?
Ancient Orthodox monasteries on islands and peninsulas, some dating back several centuries, reachable on boat excursions organised from Bahir Dar.
Q. How far are the Blue Nile Falls from Bahir Dar?
About 30-40 km, a very popular half-day excursion among visitors to the city.
Q. Is it true that the airport has a new terminal?
Yes, inaugurated in 2026, described as the second-largest passenger terminal in Ethiopia after the one in Addis Ababa.
Q. Is there a malaria risk in Bahir Dar?
Bahir Dar sits at a lower altitude than Addis Ababa, around 1,800 metres, in a zone where the malaria risk is not nil as it is in the capital: talk to a travel doctor before departure to assess suitable prophylaxis for the Lake Tana area.
Flight board
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