Blue Nile Falls

During the weekends when I’m not working, I have been able to travel to the historical sites surrounding Gondar. One of the highlights of my trips have been traveling to Bahir Dahr and visiting the Blue Nile Falls. Rebecca, Favian (our German friend who is doing rotations at the UoG) and I took a 1 hour bus ride outside of the city of Bahir Dahr to visit the Blue Nile falls.

On the bus ride there we had the pleasure of an “Azmari” or musician who happened to also be traveling on our bus. He was an older gentleman who played the “Masinko” which is a traditional stringed instrument that is often played in our traditional music. The musicians that play the “Masinko” are known to be creative with their lyrics – in fact they are known to create witty lyrics to their songs on the spot which usually reference their surroundings (people, places, political environments, etc). It kind of reminds me of a type of slam poetry or rap battle. That 1 hour bus ride flew by as he was playing, singing, and making people on the bus laugh — everyone was in good spirits.

Below is a picture of a traditional musical instrument called the “Masinko”. It resembles a one – stringed violin.

In addition to the playful music, the scenery to towards the Blue Nile Falls was spectacular. Despite it being the winter season at the time we were lucky to have a blue-skied sunny day to enjoy all the greenery.

After arriving at the entrance of the gate we had a mild to moderate hike led by a local guide. The hike was also absolutely breathtaking and the beauty of the mountains in the rainy season is just gorgeous. Here is a photo of a bridge reportedly built by the Portuguese on the way to the hike.

When we arrived at the Blue Nile Falls, we were all floored by not only the views but also by the strength of the waterfall. Due to the rainy season, locals there told us the falls are brown in color due to the erosion from the rainfall. But they said that later in the year (closer to September) the water becomes clearer and the hills are filled with yellow Meskel flowers.

 

As UW SCOPE Fellows, we are having a great time in work and play and are thankful for the opportunity to be in Ethiopia.