Ethiopia earned its national brand, Land of Origins, partly because it is the source of the Blue Nile, one of the longest rivers in the world. As the river flows downstream, it reveals some of the most captivating views along the entire Nile system, most notably at the majestic Blue Nile Falls. Emerging from Lake Tana, the river plunges over a 42-meter-high cliff, creating a spectacular spray of mist and rainbows, a breathtaking sight for any visitor.

Further downstream, near Ethiopia’s border with Sudan, the mighty river powers the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the largest hydroelectric dam in Africa. Apart from generating electricity, the GERD has also transformed the landscape with the creation of Nigat Lake, a magnificent reservoir spanning 187,400 hectares and dotted with more than 70 islands that enhance its scenic charm.

Following the dam’s inauguration, the site has been opened to the public, with Ethiopian Airlines offering scheduled shuttle flights to the area. The sprawling lake is poised to become one of Ethiopia’s emerging tourism hotspots, an ideal destination for sightseeing and water-based recreation including boating, canoeing, water skiing, fishing and more.

A visit to the GERD and Nigat Lake offers a truly rewarding experience; an opportunity to witness not only Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam but also one of Ethiopia’s newest and most promising tourist attractions.