Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve

Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve is a protected area in Ethiopia.

Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve at a Glance

Location
Northern Highlands, Ethiopia, East Africa
Coordinates
11.604004, 37.346725
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Low
Best Time to Visit
October to March (dry season) for the Simien Mountains and Bale Mountains.

Getting to Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve

Nearest airport: Bishoftu International Airport, 360 km away.

Nearest international airport: Bishoftu International Airport, 360 km away.

Weather & Climate in Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve occur in April, averaging 23.7°C (up to 29.0°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 18.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 41.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 19.5°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • February: 21.5°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • March: 23.2°C (rainfall: 0.9mm)
  • April: 23.7°C (rainfall: 17.1mm)
  • May: 22.7°C (rainfall: 67.2mm)
  • June: 20.3°C (rainfall: 138.1mm)
  • July: 18.2°C (rainfall: 438.9mm)
  • August: 18.1°C (rainfall: 345.3mm)
  • September: 18.7°C (rainfall: 192.3mm)
  • October: 19.1°C (rainfall: 66.0mm)
  • November: 19.1°C (rainfall: 17.5mm)
  • December: 19.1°C (rainfall: 3.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve

The best months to visit Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve are February, March, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 19.52°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 49%
  • February: Great, temperature 21.52°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 41%
  • March: Great, temperature 23.23°C, rainfall 0.9mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 34.3%
  • April: Great, temperature 23.74°C, rainfall 17.1mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 39.6%
  • May: Great, temperature 22.67°C, rainfall 67.2mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 53.6%
  • June: Good, temperature 20.29°C, rainfall 138.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 72.1%
  • July: Poor, temperature 18.19°C, rainfall 438.9mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 85%
  • August: Poor, temperature 18.09°C, rainfall 345.3mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 85.4%
  • September: Good, temperature 18.67°C, rainfall 192.3mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 82.9%
  • October: Good, temperature 19.14°C, rainfall 66mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 74.6%
  • November: Great, temperature 19.11°C, rainfall 17.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 64.1%
  • December: Great, temperature 19.06°C, rainfall 3.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 52.2%

Wildlife in Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve

Home to 10 recorded species including 4 waterbirds, 3 birds of prey, 1 big herbivores, 1 reptiles, 1 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve

Based on average temperature of 20.3°C, typical conditions, humidity 61%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 20°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Similar Parks in Northern Highlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ethiopia

Travel advisory for Ethiopia

Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve and what unique activities can I expect?

The dry season, from October to May, offers the most pleasant weather for exploring the reserve. During your visit, you can embark on boat trips to discover the ancient island monasteries, observe diverse birdlife, and enjoy the serene lake landscapes.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve?

While not a traditional 'big five' safari destination, Lake Tana is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 species including pelicans, African fish eagles, and various endemic birds. You might also spot hippos in the lake and different primate species along the shores.

What are the typical costs associated with visiting Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve, particularly for boat trips to the monasteries?

Entry fees for the reserve itself are generally modest, but the primary cost will be for boat hire to visit the island monasteries, which varies based on the number of islands and your negotiation. Expect to pay additional small fees for entry to individual monastery churches.

Beyond the low malaria risk, what specific safety considerations should I be aware of when visiting Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve?

While generally safe, it's advisable to arrange boat trips through reputable operators and ensure life jackets are available. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas, and always respect local customs when visiting religious sites and communities.

How does Lake Tana Biosphere Reserve offer a different experience compared to other African safari destinations, especially regarding crowds?

Lake Tana provides a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural immersion, focusing on its island monasteries and rich birdlife rather than large mammal viewing. With its low crowding level, you can enjoy a more tranquil and intimate experience, exploring historical sites and natural landscapes without large tourist groups.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Ethiopia & Djibouti by Lonely Planet - Covers the Simien Mountains, Bale Mountains, Omo Valley, and the Danakil Depression. Essential reading for Ethiopia's unique wildlife and cultural experiences.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Bradt Guide: Ethiopia by Philip Briggs - Comprehensive guide covering Simien and Bale Mountains trekking, the historic northern circuit, Omo Valley, and Ethiopia's unique endemic wildlife including gelada baboons and Ethiopian wolves.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.