visit the dead sea

The Dead Sea: top tips for your first visit to the lowest place on earth

Jan 31, 2020 • 6 min read

The Dead Sea is a place like no other, one where you'll find yourself immersed in novel experiences © Hrecheniuk Oleksii / Shutterstock

The Dead Sea , the lowest place on earth at 434m below sea level, beckons visitors with healing mineral waters, air so rich in oxygen it protects you from sunburn, oases teeming with rare animals and world-class historical sites that (almost) bring the Roman Empire to life.

Get ready to take a soothing dip in water so saline it's slimy, spot wild ibexes at spring-fed oases and climb Masada, where ancient Jews made a dramatic last stand against the legions of Rome.

Dead Sea beaches and spas

The highlight of a visit to the Dead Sea is the cobalt-blue lake itself, whose waters – shared by Israel and the Palestinian Territories on the western side and Jordan on the east  – have a salt concentration of 34%, 10 times more than ocean water. Part of the Great Rift Valley, the lake is fed by the River Jordan, but it has no outlet.

On the Israeli shore, the best place to take a dip is Ein Bokek Beach , along the sea's turquoise-hued southern basin. Given a complete makeover a few years back, this wide public beach, sandy and spotless, has lifeguards and offers a variety of free amenities, including shade shelters, changing booths, open-air showers, toilets, a paved promenade and nighttime lighting.

Spending a few hours being pampered at a mineral spa makes a fine complement to a soothing dip.  The spas inside Ein Bokek's hotels offer freshwater swimming pools, saunas, mineral baths, and health and beauty treatments; most have day rates for non-guests. At some places, including Ein Gedi Spa , you can coat yourself with invigorating black mineral mud scooped from the floor of the Dead Sea.

Warning: sinkholes

In recent years, the land around the Dead Sea's northern basin has been plagued by sinkholes, created when fresh water dissolves underground salt deposits. Because they can open up without warning – and have been known to swallow unsuspecting passersby – only a handful of seashore sites are safe to visit. Within Israel, the only accessible beach along the northern basin – where the water level drops by about a metre a year – is at Ein Gedi Spa; its shuttle takes you down to the shoreline.

Paris' Arc de Triomphe was inspired by the monumental Arch of Titus in Rome, built to celebrate the victory of the Roman legions against a Jewish rebellion that engulfed Judaea in 66 CE and was definitively ended seven years later at the Dead Sea. Masada , a mesa overlooking the northern basin of the Dead Sea, served as a place of refuge for about a thousand Jews following the destruction of Jerusalem. As a Roman battering ram stood poised to breach the walls of their redoubt, ending a months-long siege, Masada's defenders famously chose suicide over enslavement.

The best place start a visit to Masada National Park , a Unesco World Heritage Site, is the Masada Museum , whose evocative artefacts offer a remarkably vivid introduction to the site's archaeology and history. The easiest way to get to the ruins is by cable car, which whisks you up 290 metres in three minutes flat, but the only way to experience a romantic sunrise on top is to hoof it up the aptly named Snake Path , which takes about an hour.

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

One of the region’s most enchanting desert oases, Ein Gedi Nature Reserve encompasses two spring-fed canyons, Wadi David and Wadi Arugot , that plunge from the Judean Desert to the shores of the Dead Sea. Short stream-side walks take you to year-round waterfalls and freshwater pools (swimming permitted) enveloped by lush vegetation. Animals you're likely to spot include the Nubian ibex and the boulder-dwelling hyrax (dassie). Nearby stand the ruins of an ancient synagogue , known for its outstanding, 5th-century mosaic floor.

Where to stay

About a dozen large luxury hotels can be found at Ein Bokek  (four more are planned) , arrayed along a lakefront strip. Outfitted with powerful air-conditioning, gorgeous swimming pools, state-of-the-art spas and buffet bonanzas, they don't come cheap, though online deals are sometimes available. The area's classiest inland hostelry is the lovely Ein Gedi Kibbutz Hotel , famed for its hillside views and verdant gardens.

If you don't mind staying away from the beach, hostel options just outside Ein Gedi Nature Reserve include the Ein Gedi Youth Hostel and the SPNI Field School , run by the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel. The Masada Guest House , another hostel, is just a few hundred metres from Masada's eastern entrance. All of these places offer simple rooms and delicious, healthy Israeli-style breakfasts (vegetable salads, soft and hard cheeses, olives, yoghurt, fresh bread, jam); count on paying US$120 to US$140 for a double.

By far the cheapest way to overnight at the Dead Sea is to camp, which is permitted for no charge along two stretches of the Ein Bokek beachfront. A step up is Khan Ein Gedi , just outside Kibbutz Ein Gedi, which offers inexpensive accommodation in basic huts; bathrooms are shared.

Where to eat

Most overnight visitors to the Dead Sea take half-board at their hotels, so restaurants are in short supply. Even Ein Bokek has only a handful of proper eateries. According to some locals, the best of the bunch is Taj Mahal , which – despite its Indian-inspired name – serves Middle Eastern grilled meats, with nary a curry in sight. It's in a Bedouin-style tent (think rugs, pillows and low couches) outdoors, so there's no air-con. Ein Bokek's hotel zone also has a handful of cafes. Other options include a dairy restaurant at Kibbutz Ein Gedi and, for lunch, the food court at Masada's eastern entrance.

For self-caterers, the best place to stock up on picnic supplies is the Kolbo Grocery inside Kibbutz Ein Gedi. Along the Ein Bokek strip, several mini-markets sell a limited supply of edibles.

How to get around

If you're short on time, the major sites along the western shore of the Dead Sea can be visited on a day trip from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv . Getting around is easiest and most convenient if you have your own wheels, but good-value tours are available – among the best are those offered by Abraham Hostels .

It's also possible, though fiddly, to take public buses . Except on Friday evenings, Saturdays and Jewish holidays, about a dozen buses a day (numbers 444 and 486), run by Egged, link Jerusalem's central bus station with the Dead Sea. If you catch the first bus of the day (usually at 7am), it's possible to take a short hike at Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, bus it to Masada and then swim at Ein Bokek before hopping on an evening bus back to Jerusalem.

Top tips for taking a Dead Sea dip

- Don't shave anywhere for a day or two before you get to the Dead Sea – the minerals in the water will make every scratch sting. - Do not wear jewellery – almost everything except 24-carat gold will instantly tarnish (though it can be cleaned). - Wear flip-flops to protect your feet from the scorching sand (and, in some places, sharp stones). - Do not splash or dunk your head – if water gets in your eyes, they will sting ferociously. - Drink lots of fresh water – the Dead Sea's dry heat (up to 47°C) can quickly suck you dry of precious bodily fluids. - Make sure westerly winds don't blow you out to sea, towards Jordan.

This article was first published November 2017 and updated January 2020

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Visit The Dead Sea: Jordan Guide with Essential Tips

One of the most unique experiences that you can only have on a trip to Jordan, Israel or the Palestinian Territories, is a dip in the Dead Sea. To make this moment as memorable as possible, I have put together a list of important Dead Sea tips to ensure that your visit is as memorable as possible.

Many people have even written articles about how they did not like the experience at all. With this guide, you are likely to avoid the mistakes that many first-time visitors make.

I have been very fortunate to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience several times. I have been on a guided tour which took us to a private beach club and I have rented a car and stayed at a hotel on the Dead Sea several times.

Visiting the Dead Sea is a once in a lifetime experience for most, so I want to make sure you know what to expect when you visit the lowest place on Earth! So many people have made mistakes when visiting this natural phenomenon, and I want to make sure that you are not one of them!

Dead Sea Tips

Dead Sea Facts

The dead sea is the lowest point on earth.

The Dead Sea lies at the lowest point on Earth, 434 meters below sea level. Due to increased environmental issues nearby, namely an increase in demand for water for farming and consumption by an ever increasing population in this water-poor region, the Dead Sea is getting lower and lower each year. 

The air at the Dead Sea is rich in oxygen which protects the skin from harmful UV rays. Although the temperature is hotter than higher elevations in the area, those enjoying the sun are protected from its harmful, cancer-causing rays. Do not skip the sunscreen however, it is possible to get burned while in the sun at the Dead Sea. 

Read more facts and infomration: What is the Dead Sea

How is “Sea Level” measured?

Have you ever wondered how sea level is measured? It is one of those things that everyone knows of, but likely does not know how it is actually calculated. Sea level is based on the Mediterranean Sea.

The Dead Sea is Vanishing at an Alarming Rate

Environmental impacts in the region mean that the Dead Sea is dropping one Meter every single year! At this rate, this experience will not be around forever.

The receding water is mostly due to the added pressure put on the Jordan River and neighbouring streams for a water source for Israel, the West Bank and Jordan. 

 Some estimates state that it will be dried up in 30 years without some type of intervention. It used to be 57 kilometres in length and it is currently around 47 kilometres and its shores are shrinking every year. 

There are calls and plans for bringing water from the Red Sea in order to save this unique and natural place. However, there are no active projects to do this.

The Dead Sea Healing Properties

The Dead Sea offers more than just a salty dip. The water is rich in salt and minerals that are great for your skin. These minerals bring people from all over the world who are suffering from various types of skin diseases. 

Bathing in the mineral-rich Dead Sea water can be beneficial for your skin in numerous ways, including: reduced roughness, detoxification,  and improved circulation. It is also known to help with conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and arthritis. 

There are medical facilities along the Dead Sea that offer treatments for these skin conditions.

Instead of thinking of your visit to the Dead Sea as a beach vacation, think of it more as a spa vacation, and enjoy the minerals and mud.

The air has a higher oxygen concentration in this area. 

Essential Dead Sea Tips You DO NOT Want to Skip Over

#1 this is not your typical beach vacation.

The Dead Sea is not actually a sea at all. It is actually a lake. (Feel free to research the difference between a sea and a lake if you like, you might, like me, learn something new). While resorts line the beaches, do not expect much of a sandy shoreline. The shores consist of mud, pebbles and sharp crystallized salt. 

While you will find beach chairs and umbrellas, it is not at all like any other beach in the world. 

Do not expect to see kids playing on shore or plan to spend the day at the actual beach. The Dead Sea can actually be an extreme experience and is even uncomfortable for some. 

Wading into the water actually feels like getting into an oily or smily bath. The saline rich water density makes it feel this way.

#2 Dead Sea Tip: Bring your Camera, but take photos before you get wet!

The salt on the dead sea sticks to everything! Take some pics before you get into the water or before your hands are covered in mud! Also if you have a gopro, the salt will almost instantly stick to it when you take photos so keep dunking it into the water in between shots! Also some of the  best instagram places in Jordan  are at the Dead Sea, take some time to get some great photos if that is your thing!

#3 Bring a Bathing Suit and Hop In

Whether you swim or not, the salinity of the Dead Sea makes your body effortlessly float. The high concentration of minerals makes the water’s density higher than that of the human body. That’s why you can float easily in the water. 

You can float in just a foot of water if you like, but it is better to go out a bit deeper! It is actually a lot of fun to try and put your feet on the bottom of the Dead Sea.

Do not skip out on getting in! That’s the best part of a visit to the Dead Sea!

#4 Dead Sea Tip: Do not Splash!

There is not much that is as painful as getting the water into your eyes. Be careful when you sit yourself down into the water and avoid getting it into your eyes and mouth.

Do not even consider dunking your head under water. You will be in for a big surprise. There is actually signs that say no swimming to avoid splashing and getting the water into your eyes. 

#5 Dead Sea Tip: Salt is Sharp!

As mentioned above, the Dead Sea does not have a sandy shoreline. It consists of pebbles and sharp crystallized salt. In the wetter months when there is more run off from the mountains, there can also be sticks and other debris on the shore. When it does rain in Jordan, the water flows downward, and what is lower than the Dead Sea? Well, nothing. 

If you struggle to walk on gravel beaches, I suggest you bring a pair of sandals or water shoes. Part of the process of getting into the water is sometimes stepping on the uncomfortably sharp salt crystals. Rubber flip-flops are perfect and throw them back to shore once you are comfortably floating! Leave your nice sandals at the hotel.

#6 Tip for an Enjoyable Dead Sea Float: Don’t shave your legs beforehand!

Avoid shaving for at least a day before your visit. Otherwise you will end up having your skin stinging, BADLY! Try to visualize using hand sanitizer when you have a small cut on your hand. Times that by your entire body and that is what it feels like with the mineral rich, salty water on freshly shaved legs!

#7 Ever Heard of “Putting Salt on a Wound”

If you have ever heard the phrase, “putting salt on a wound,” you will experience the pain if you have any recent cuts.

If you have any cuts that are not fully healed, consider liquid bandaid and spray it over any cutsto protect them from the salt. 

My son fell the morning before our visit and even with liquid bandaid, he was very uncomfortable and said it stung a lot! He will forever refer to the Dead Sea as the “Stinging Sea!”

#8 Do not Linger too Long in the Dead Sea

This once-in-a-lifetime experience will be over before you know it. 10-15 minutes is recommended for floating in the Dead Sea before you may begin to feel uncomfortable! But your Dead Sea visit does not have to end there, shower off and head up to the pool!

Make sure you hydrate well after your dip as well! In the summer months I suggest you bring a water bottle or two down to the beach with you, as it is extremely hot and the salty water makes you want a cool drink even more!

#9 Tip for the Dead Sea: Enjoy the Mud

If you are not hypersensitive, enjoy the mud before you float! Avoid the eye area and I suggest you do not put it above your eyes because when you wash it off in the water, that stinging salt water will drip into your eyes (YES, been there, done that!)

The Dead Sea with Kids

Some kids are a lot more sensitive than adults and that can result in a bad Dead Sea experience. My son fell the morning before our visit and had some good road rash. Despite spraying it with  liquid bandaids , he came out in tears before getting knee deep. On a second visit, he said it was uncomfortable as soon as he got in.

My younger son, who was three our first visit, enjoyed it, but had a tough time keeping his mouth closed and not splashing, especially while trying to balance and float.

Make sure you have a bottle of fresh water to wash out their eyes and mouth. While my older son did not like getting in the water, he enjoyed collecting chunks of salt and examining the crazy formations that it makes.

After our “float” we went back to the hotel pool for the afternoon and they had their fun!

Overall, my suggestion is to manage your expectations when it comes to your little ones and it may not be the same experience for them as it is for you.

Dead Sea Dangers: Sinkholes

While I have mentioned all of the things to enjoy your salty dip, I have not mentioned the surrounding region. There is a road along the Dead Sea on the Jordan side and many places to pull off the highway. 

While it may seem ideal to climb down to the water, beware of sink holes that are created when fresh water dissolves underground salt deposits.

What to Pack for the Dead Sea

Depending whether you are staying at one of the local Dead Sea hotels or if you are visiting on a day trip, have these items handy. If you are coming in for just a few hours on a tour, bring them in a plastic bag or a beach bag and leave the rest of your suitcase and day bag items in the vehicle with your driver

Towel : Hotel guests will likely be given a towel with a towel card, but if you are a day visitor, you will have to pay a deposit for one. If you are not a guest, bring your own towel (if you have one).

Bathing Suit : This one is pretty obvious : )

Cover Up : While bikinis are acceptable at the Dead Sea and around the pool, bring something to cover up while you walk down to the water (as in some places it is a few hundred meters due to its rapid receding.

Water : Bring a water bottle in case you get the salt water into your eyes. Also it is quite a bit hotter at the Dead Sea so stay hydrated while you float

Aqua Shoes or Sandals : The salt crystals feel like shards of glass as you make your way into the water, do yourself a favour and bring  sandals  or  aqua shoes .

Liquid Bandaids : You will want to use  liquid bandaids on any cuts or scraps (make sure they are dry before applying it or it will sting). We carry it in our first aid kid now. Grab yourself one on  Amazon  before you go!

Get my entire Jordan Packing List PDF.

The Best Time to Visit the Dead Sea

The best time to visit the Dead Sea is typically spring and fall, however it does receive visitors all year round. Spring and Fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. In the summer months it can be an excess of 40 degrees Celsius. In December and January it can be too cold to take a dip except for those who are adventurous. 

Note that Spring is typically the wet season and flash floods occur in the Jordan Valley. The water has no where to go but down the mountain and the many rivers bring debris down into the Dead Sea. While the beaches are cleaned up by the resorts and beach clubs, if there has been rain before your visit, you may find branches (and garbage … ugh) on the sea shore. 

How to Get to the Dead Sea

I have a series of transportation posts on getting to the Dead Sea from major cities in Jordan.

Amman to the Dead Sea

Aqaba to the Dead Sea

Where to Stay at the Dead Sea

Choosing somewhere to stay at the Dead Sea is important as it is not the kind of place where you park at the side of the road and wade into the water. Beach access is limited and decent amenities make the experience much better! 

The Dead Sea feels very oily and a fresh shower afterwards is needed! 

Being right on the beach also means you can take a dip whenever you want and then enjoy the pools with a view. While your stay at the actual seashore will be short, having a beachfront hotel means you can visit when you want, rather than taking a shuttle.

Read my Dead Sea Hotels Guide

Things to do Nearby the Dead Sea

There are a few things to do nearby the Dead Sea that deserve some time.

One of them is The Wadi Mujib Water Canyon Trail. This hike takes you a kilometre upstream to the a waterfall and is perfect for the adventure traveller. Read more about Wadi Mujib

Ma’in Hot Springs Resort is an oasis offering an outdoor pool and a spa situated directly under a  hot spring  waterfall. It is about 15 minutes from the Wadi Mujib adventure center. It offers 5 star amenities and an experience you can have no where else in Jordan.

WANT TO BOOK MA’IN HOT SPRINGS? CLICK HERE TO SEE PRICES AND AVAILABILITY.

Dead Sea Frequently Asked Questions

The Dead Sea is in the Middle East. It lies between Israel and Palestine to the East and Jordan to the West.

The Dead Sea is called “dead” because its high salinity prevents fish and aquatic plants from living in it.

The high concentration of minerals makes the water’s density higher than that of the human body. That’s why you can float easily in the water. 

It is around 300m at its deepest point.

No there are no fish or aquatic plants. They cannot survive the high salt concentration in the water.

Yes. It is full of tiny microbes. But that is it.

Tips for visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan. Read the following posts when planning your trip to the Dead Sea.

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How to Visit the Dead Sea

Complete Guide to Visiting the Dead Sea

Assi Dvilanski / 500px /Getty

The Dead Sea, a non-coastal salt lake in southwestern Asia, sandwiched between Israel and Jordan with portions in the West Bank, goes by many monikers: Sea of Death, Salt Sea, and Sea of Lot. What makes this hyper-saline natural marvel so special is that it’s the absolute lowest body of water on the surface of the Earth, with the bottommost elevation on land. The Dead Sea, where the water is about 10 times saltier than ocean water, is unlike any other destination in the world. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before visiting.

How the Dead Sea Was Formed

Millions of years ago, a saltwater lagoon was linked to the Mediterranean Sea. The faults of the African and Arabian tectonic plates shifted, the earth between the Dead Sea and Mediterranean rose, and the ocean’s water supply was cut off leaving the Dead Sea isolated. Freshwater springs and aquifers feed the sea (which, is actually a lake because it’s landlocked), but since there is no outflow, the water simply accumulates in the Dead Sea and then evaporates in the sunken hot desert, leaving salt behind.

What You Will See at the Sea

Let’s start with what you won’t see. No birds, fish, or plants can survive in the inhospitable cobalt-blue waters of the Dead Sea, which exists 1,412 feet below sea level.

At the water’s edge, crystalized sodium chloride makes the rocks and sand shimmer. It’s here, between the hills of Judea and the Jordan mountains, that people come to float and enjoy the mineral properties of the water. You’ll see bodies extended out on the surface of the water as if lounging on a pool floatation device. It’s nearly impossible to dive and, in fact, keeping your head out of the water is a good idea because the salt will most definitely irritate your eyes. If you have even the slightest of cuts, like a paper cut, you’ll feel the sting in the Dead Sea.

When floating, you’ll see reddish-brown sandstone mesas and the mountains of Jordan as they stretch in the distance across the glassy water.

You’ll notice a lack of water sports—there are no motorized vehicles, boats, or rolling waves. This adds to the moon-like ethereal landscape and, ultimately, makes for a peaceful and quiet atmosphere.

Consider the Weather

Since the weather is generally warm and sunny year round, any time is a great time to visit, but keep in mind that summer temperatures can soar to more than 110 degrees Fahrenheit and winter temperatures can drop to the high 60s F. The area enjoys an average of 330 sun-filled days per year. A lack of precipitation—less than 4 inches per year—and a dry desert environment create the ideal outdoor soaking environment. You'll dry off quickly when exiting the water.

If you visit during the summer, when temperatures are at their hottest, you’re likely to have the place more to yourself. Conversely, visiting in the winter will mean that you’ll be enjoying the Dead Sea along with others.

Experience a Spa Escape

A popular destination for locals and tourists, the Dead Sea is well known as a natural spa escape. It’s a common practice to cover your body in silky dark brown mineral-rich mud, lay out in the sun, and then wash the mud off in the oil-like dense water. Many of the hotels offer spa treatments utilizing the surrounding mud and salt and resort swimming pools are often filled with the salt water from the sea.

People with persistent skin ailments, like psoriasis and eczema, routinely visit the Dead Sea to heal. The bone-dry climate mixed with the oxygen-rich atmosphere and mineral-heavy water are said to have extraordinary restorative properties. The salt is harvested and shipped all over the world to be used in beauty treatments and products.

Know Before You Go

Much of the Jordan River has been diverted for human use, shrinking the sea’s borders at an alarming rate and increasing the salt deposits. The surface level is dropping at an average of 3 feet per year. Each year, the Dead Sea changes in measurable ways, including the presence of sink holes. If this is a destination you hope to experience, visit sooner rather than later.

Tips for Visiting

• Take photographs before entering the water as the saline can damage your camera and create a film over the lens.
• Be sure to wear a swimsuit that you don’t care about too much. The high salt content, as well as the mud, is likely to degrade your suit and create discoloration.
• Bring a towel along to dry your hands before touching your face—if salt gets into your eyes, it will burn.
• Any cuts or sensitive areas on your skin will sting in the water. If you do have a cut, be sure to wrap it with a waterproof bandage before entering. Along the same lines, do not shave right before entering as you’ll experience a burning sensation.
• Bring along water shoes because the salt deposits along the shore may be sharp.
• Do not jump or splash—this might be a difficult concept if you’re traveling with children—as you could cut your skin on salt shards and get water in your eyes.
• Be sure stay hydrated with fresh water since you'll be out in the hot sun.
• And, of course, the longer you float in the water the more your skin will dry out, so plan accordingly.

Other Things To Do

If on the Israel side, there are other things to do in the Dead Sea area that you should consider. Masada , a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site, perched on a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea in the Judaean Desert, is a top natural attraction. Built by King Herod the Great to be used as a palace and then later occupied by Jewish patriots as a last stand against the Roman army, Masada is quite a site to study.

Visit the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve for hiking, wildlife viewing, botanic garden exploration, and a view of David Waterfall.

See Mount Sodom where pillars of limestone and clay-capped salt stand tall. One of these rugged columns is known as “Lot’s Wife,” a biblical figure who was turned into salt when she looked back at the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. You can explore this mountain made of salt via jeep tour or by hiking.

In 1947, the first of seven ancient Hebrew scrolls, called The Dead Sea Scrolls, was found in the Judaean Desert’s Qumran Caves by a local Bedouin boy. These religious documents, now held at the Israel Museum ’s The Shrine of the Book in Jerusalem, hold historical and linguistic importance, so be sure to stop by the museum to see them if you plan to be in Jerusalem.

How to Get There 

Flights from the United States to Israel land in Tel Aviv, a city worth exploring for its markets, beaches, dining, nightlife, and urban feel. From Tel Aviv, you can drive two hours and reach the Dead Sea. You can either rent a car and go on your own, book a tour with a reputable agency, or take a taxi. 

You may also want to go from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and then on to the Dead Sea. Buses are also available from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea.

In Israel, visitors usually choose to stay in either Ein Bokek or Ein Gedi, where the major hotels and resorts are located. You can also opt to fly to Amman, Jordan’s capital city, and stay on the eastern shore, especially if you’re planning to visit Petra and Wadi Rum.

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Visiting the Dead Sea in Israel? Here’s What You Need to Know

• March 29, 2023

Are you planning a trip to the mesmerizing Dead Sea in Israel? Get ready for an unforgettable experience! In this comprehensive Dead Sea travel guide, we will explore everything you need to know before embarking on your journey. From the best time to visit the Dead Sea to must-see places and exciting activities, we’ve got you covered!

The Dead Sea – A Natural Wonder

The Dead Sea is a unique natural wonder located between Israel and Jordan. It’s the lowest point on Earth, sitting at approximately 1,410 feet (430 meters) below sea level . The water in the Dead Sea is famously salty, with a salinity level almost ten times that of regular seawater . This extraordinary salt concentration has made the Dead Sea a popular destination for its therapeutic properties and striking beauty.

Best Time to Visit the Dead Sea

When planning your visit to the Dead Sea, it’s essential to consider the climate. The region experiences a hot, dry desert climate, with scorching summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the Dead Sea is during the shoulder seasons, specifically between March and May or between October and December. During these months, you can expect pleasant temperatures, making it the perfect time to relax by the sea, visit the best Dead Sea beaches , and explore the stunning surroundings.

Is Dead Sea Day Trip an Option?

A visit to the Dead Sea can be easily organized as a day trip from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. The drive from Jerusalem takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, while from Tel Aviv, it’s around 2-2.5 hours. Numerous guided tours are available for those who prefer a more structured experience. Alternatively, you can take a bus, or, even better, rent a car and make your way to the Dead Sea at your own pace, allowing you to explore the region more extensively.

Essential Tips When Visiting the Dead Sea 

Before travelling to the Dead Sea, it’s crucial to keep a few essential tips in mind:

• Stay hydrated: Due to the hot and dry climate, it’s important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout your visit.
• Sun protection: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses, to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
• Water safety: The Dead Sea’s extreme salt content can cause discomfort if it comes into contact with your eyes, open cuts, or sensitive skin. Be sure to enter the water slowly and avoid submerging your head. If you experience any irritation, rinse with fresh water immediately.
• Float, don’t swim: The Dead Sea’s unique buoyancy makes it nearly impossible to swim conventionally. Instead, relax and enjoy floating effortlessly on the water’s surface.

Dead Sea Places to Visit and Attractions to See

While visiting the Dead Sea, be sure to explore some of the incredible attractions in the surrounding area:

• Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

This beautiful oasis, located near the Dead Sea, boasts lush vegetation, stunning waterfalls, and a variety of hiking trails suitable for almost any level . A visit to the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve is a perfect way to experience Israel’s diverse landscape.

• Masada National Park

Perched atop an isolated rock plateau, the ancient fortress of Masada is a must-see destination. The site is rich in history, having served as the last stronghold of Jewish rebels against the Roman Empire. You can either hike up the Snake Path or take a cable car to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Dead Sea and surrounding desert.

• Qumran National Park

Home to the famous Dead Sea Scrolls , Qumran National Park offers visitors a glimpse into the fascinating history of the region. Explore the ancient ruins of the Qumran settlement and visit the nearby museum, which houses a collection of artefacts and scrolls discovered in the area.

• Ahava Dead Sea Factory and Visitors Center

If you’re interested in learning more about the production of Dead Sea cosmetics, a visit to the Ahava Factory and Visitors Center is a must. Discover how the unique minerals and mud from the Dead Sea are transformed into luxurious skincare products, and take the opportunity to purchase some souvenirs to bring home.

• Mineral Beach

For a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, head to Mineral Beach, a popular spot for floating in the Dead Sea’s therapeutic waters. The beach is equipped with shaded areas, showers, and a café, ensuring a comfortable visit.

• Dead Sea Panoramic Complex

This impressive complex offers stunning views of the Dead Sea and the surrounding area, as well as an informative museum showcasing the geological, ecological, and historical aspects of the region. Be sure to stop by on your way to or from the Dead Sea for a memorable and educational experience.

• Ein Bokek Beach 

This well-maintained public beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy the Dead Sea’s waters. Ein Bokek Beach offers facilities such as showers, changing rooms, and sun loungers, making it an ideal location for a relaxing day by the sea.

• Lot’s Wife’s Pillar

According to biblical legend, Lot’s wife was turned into a pillar of salt when she looked back at the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah . Today, visitors can view a unique rock formation near the Dead Sea, which is believed by some to be the remains of Lot’s wife. The site offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and ancient lore.

Wadi David is another stunning oasis located near the Dead Sea, offering a selection of picturesque hiking trails and refreshing natural pools. The area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Wadi Mujib 

Located on the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea, Wadi Mujib is a breathtaking canyon that offers a range of thrilling adventure activities such as hiking, abseiling, and canyoning. Although it requires crossing the border, it’s well worth the trip for those looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Where to Stay When Visiting the Dead Sea?

If you’re planning to extend your visit to the Dead Sea beyond a day trip, there are various accommodation options available. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels, you’ll find something to suit your preferences and needs. Below are just a few examples and suggestions you could consider.

• Herods Dead Sea Hotel

This upscale resort offers elegant rooms, a private beach, and a luxurious spa, providing guests with a truly indulgent experience. The hotel also features an outdoor pool, fitness center, and several dining options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

• Isrotel Dead Sea Hotel & Spa

With its contemporary design and relaxing atmosphere, Isrotel Dead Sea Hotel & Spa is another excellent option for those seeking luxury accommodations. Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s private beach, pampering spa treatments, and a variety of on-site dining options.

• Leonardo Plaza Hotel Dead Sea

This modern hotel offers a range of amenities, including a private beach, outdoor pool, and spa facilities, at a more affordable price point. The hotel also provides a selection of dining options, as well as comfortable and spacious rooms.

• Ein Gedi Kibbutz Hotel

Set within the serene surroundings of the Ein Gedi Kibbutz, this hotel offers a unique and tranquil experience. Guests can enjoy the beautiful botanical gardens, refreshing swimming pools, and comfortable accommodations, all while being immersed in the kibbutz lifestyle.

• HI Ein Gedi Hostel

This clean and well-maintained hostel provides budget-conscious travellers with an affordable option near the Dead Sea [20]. Guests have access to a shared kitchen, comfortable common areas, and a range of room options, including dormitories and private rooms.

• Metzoke Dragot Guest House

Nestled in the heart of the desert, Metzoke Dragot Guest House offers guests a unique and authentic experience. The guest house provides simple yet comfortable accommodations, as well as a range of activities, including camel rides and guided tours.

Make the Most Out of Your Dead Sea Visit

Visiting the Dead Sea promises to be a memorable and enriching experience, offering an extraordinary natural landscape, fascinating history, and a plethora of exciting activities. With this comprehensive Dead Sea travel guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your journey to this remarkable destination. So pack your bags, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

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Dead Sea, Jordan: 6 Best Things To Do

Discover the fascinating Dead Sea in Jordan , a natural wonder whose origins date back to almost 4 million years ago! This landlocked body of water is famous for its incredibly high salt content, allowing visitors to float on top of the water — a truly relaxing experience. Spend a few days at the Dead Sea, soaking up the natural minerals in the water, floating under the sun, taking mud baths, and pampering yourself at one of the many luxurious resorts. Discover all the best things to do in the Dead Sea on your Jordan itinerary with this complete travel guide.

6 Things to do in the Dead Sea, Jordan

Famous for being the saltiest sea on earth (about 10 times saltier than normal seawater), many people visit the Dead Sea in Jordan to experience the floating phenomenon caused by the salt. This allows you to float gently on top of the water and experience the feeling of being totally weightless! 

So how is this possible? Because the Dead Sea is landlocked, it causes the water to evaporate quickly, leaving behind tons of salt. It’s this salt that causes the water to be much denser, meaning your body is lighter, allowing you to float effortlessly. The high salt content is also what makes the sea ‘dead’, as no living thing can exist here; you won’t find birds, marine life, or plants in this area.

Read: The complete 7-day Jordan itinerary

Did you know? Although named ‘The Dead Sea’, this incredible body of water is actually a Lake that sits 420 meters below sea level. It is famed as the lowest point on Earth! It’s also long and not particularly wide, so you can even see across to the West Bank. 

Hotels in Dead Sea 😴

1. Float in the Dead Sea

Experience the unforgettable moment of floating in the Dead Sea! Because of the high salt content, it’s almost impossible to swim. Just simply relax and float — bliss! 

Along with the peaceful nature of floating, this water has some extraordinary health benefits. In fact, there are over 20 minerals in the water (some of which are known to alleviate pain from arthritis!).

Some examples are Calcium, which helps keep skin hydrated and preserve a healthy skin glow, and magnesium, which has excellent properties for relaxing muscles. Undoubtedly, this activity alone is one of the top things to do at the Dead Sea, Jordan.

Here are all your hotel options in Dead Sea.

Tip: Sadly, the Dead Sea is reducing in depth by nearly 1 meter per year. Do your bit to be a responsible traveler and follow our sustainable travel tips .

Top tips for floating in the Dead Sea

• Before you go in, you must remember to cover any minor cuts or grazes with Vaseline, otherwise, the salt will really sting.
• For the same reason, don’t shave for a few days before. 
• Try not to splash; the high salt content can hurt your eyes!
• Take water shoes. In some parts, because of the beautiful salt crystals on the shore, it can be tough and spiky on your feet.
• Limit your swim to 15 minutes (allowing your skin to get used to the high salt content).
• Shower straight after and rinse out your swimsuit.

See availability and tickets for a day tour to the Dead Sea

2. Dead Sea Mud Bath

Get muddy at these unique Dead Sea beaches! The best way to fully enjoy a Dead Sea Mud Bath experience is to begin by taking a relaxing dip in the sea. After, cover yourself in the mineral-laden mud and bake for 15 minutes in the sun before washing off in fresh water. If you are nowhere near fresh water, hop back in the sea to uncover your super soft body.  

Discover the Things to do in Petra, Jordan

Did you know? The Dead Sea mud is packed with minerals like Calcium, Silica, and Zinc, which really help keep the skin smooth and firmer. The mud is well known to draw out impurities, improve circulation, and reduce aches and pains.

Tip: You don’t have to pay to stay at a resort hotel to enjoy a Dead Sea Mud Bath! There are a few public beaches that locals access, and you can join them.  However, the advantage of paying for a ticket at a resort hotel is that you can make full use of the showers and dressing rooms.

3. Visit a Spa

There’s nothing better than enjoying a relaxing spa experience as one of the top things to do at the Dead Sea in Jordan! There are plenty to choose from. All with a huge choice of facilities and treatments to pamper the senses and relax and revitalize the body and mind. 

Choose from traditional spas with ancient Arabian and Asian rituals, hop in and out of indoor Dead Sea saltwater pools, take a sauna, and enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the Dead Sea. 

These are just a few of your options:

• Zara Spa at the Movenpick Resort & Spa
• Dead Sea Resort & Spa at Crowne Plaza
• Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa
• Kempinski Hotel Ishtar

4. Visit Wadi Mujib Canyon

This incredible canyon is a must-see in your things to do in the Dead Sea, Jordan. Discover small waterfalls, epic rocks, and a refreshing cool air that moves through the canyon, protecting you from the searing Jordan heat.

Book here a tour to Wadi Mujib .

There are several trails you can choose from exploring Wadi Mujib , climbing small waterfalls and rocks using ropes and rungs, or just sticking to the beginning of the Canyon. The adventure starts in ankle-deep water and then gets steadily deeper until you will need to swim some sections. Remember, though, you will need to be reasonably fit – it’s a bit more than just a hike. 

See tickets and availability for a tour to the canyon

Tip: The ‘wet trails’ are only open from April to the end of October because of flash floods and dry season droughts.

How to get to Wadi Mujib

The trails are all situated within the Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve, which is situated in the Karak Mountains. You can reach the most popular section from Highway 65 by the Dead Sea, and this is just 30 minutes by car from the Dead Sea resorts and 90 minutes from Amman . This is where the location of the Mujib Adventure Centre is and where the trails begin and finish. 

There is a car park there, visitor information, toilets and a cafe. Opening hours are 8 AM to 3 PM, and entry costs around 21 JD (about $30 USD) per person (cash and card payments are accepted).

See tickets and availability for a tour to Wadi Mujib

5. Visit Madaba : The City of Mosaic

This bustling city is a fascinating place to visit with its many beautiful mosaics from the Byzantine Empire. The most famous site is at St George’s Church, where you can see the most extensive mosaic map in the world, depicting the Holy Land. 

While you are in Madaba city, it’s also well worth visiting Mount Nebo, which is just 10 km away.  This elevated ridge is about 700 meters above sea level, so visitors can see the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, and even Jerusalem from this sacred mountain on a clear day.  It is said that Moses lived out his final days here.

Visit Madaba + the Dead Sea on a day tour from Amman

6. Ma’in Hot Springs

You can’t leave without visiting the hot mineral springs and waterfalls of Ma’in (also known as Hammamat). Herod the Great was said to have bathed in the medicinal water here. Many people came to enjoy a hot soak and thermal treatments. 

At Ma’in, the water ranges from 45 degrees C to 60 degrees C and tumbles off the hillside, collecting in little pools for visitors to bathe in the hot mineral water. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience when you plan your things to do at the Dead Sea.

Tip: It’s best to visit in the Spring or Fall as the temperature of the water can get very hot!

Getting there: Ma’in Hot Springs is just 18 km from the Dead Sea resorts and easily accessible by car in just 20 minutes. If you are traveling from Amman , the journey will take you about an hour. It’s the perfect addition to your Jordan itinerary!

Best Cafes & Restaurants at the Dead Sea

There’s a wide variety of restaurants at the Dead Sea, whether you want mountain views, fresh seafood, or traditional food from Jordan. These are a few of our favorite restaurants:

• Panorama Restaurant
• The Ocean Restaurant
• Elite Restaurant and Cafe

Tip: Make sure to try one of Jordan’s signature dishes. For example, Mansaf is a mouthwatering dish made of spiced lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented, dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur. Makloubeh is also delicious; it’s a rice dish with vegetables and cuts of chicken or lamb.

Where to Stay at the Dead Sea Jordan

Most people choose to stay in resort hotels, which have their own spas, for the ultimate luxury experience! Resorts such as The Hilton , Movenpick , and Marriott also have direct access to the Dead Sea beachfront at Sowayma, just off the Dead Sea Road. 

Don’t worry if you’re choosing to stay in an apartment or guesthouse instead; there are also public areas to access the Dead Sea. There is also a small choice of hostel accommodation in the area, ranging from modern dorm buildings with balcony views over the water to backpacker hotels in the desert.

How Many Days at The Dead Sea?

A couple of days at the Dead Sea will give you enough time to make the most of the attractions that the area has to offer without rushing. It is possible to visit in a day from Amman, but you’ll need to leave early in the morning.

How to Visit The Dead Sea, Jordan

Most visitors arrive in Amman, the capital of Jordan, by plane. The Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) is the main airport in Jordan and is just 50 minutes from downtown Amman. 

From Amman to Dead Sea

Getting to the Dead Sea area from Amman only takes 45 minutes by rental car, taxi, or shuttle service and is a very straightforward, safe drive. 

Book your shuttle service from Amman Airport

Alternatively, there are public transport options, such as the local bus from Amman, which takes around an hour.

Book your bus tickets to the Dead Sea in advance

Dead Sea Tour

For the most straightforward option, choose a tour with return transportation and visit the Dead Sea on a day trip from Amman.

Getting Around

Once you arrive at the Dead Sea, the easiest way to get around is by car so that you can travel around at your own pace and visit the destinations of your choice.

We recommend to rent a car in Jordan through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Alternatively, you can book tours or private taxis.  You can, of course, walk around the beach areas and attractions close to the Dead Sea from your accommodation.

How Much Does the Dead Sea Cost?

The Dead Sea is accessible for all kinds of travelers and budgets. For example, you can spend lots of money at luxurious resort hotels, or you can travel to the area on a small budget, stay in hostels, and enjoy the ultimate free activity – floating on the water! This is possible from public beaches (as well as resorts), so you won’t have to pay.

Costs of Traveling in Dead Sea

Travel on a budget in Dead Sea, from $720 − $550 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1510 − $2580 USD, and high-end from $2490 − $3350 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $100 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $15 − $25 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $50 − $90 USD
• Activities: $15 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

The Dead Sea area is one of the hottest places in Jordan, so we recommend the Spring and the Fall as the best times to visit. It may be slightly cooler early in the morning, but by the time you visit the beach, it will be a very pleasant temperature. 

Tip: Be mindful of the holidays as the locals love to visit the beaches at this time, and the accommodation will be more expensive due to demand.

What to Pack on Your Visit to the Dead Sea

• Reusable water bottle. Reduce plastic while traveling by finding places to refill. It’s also essential to stay hydrated because of the high salt content.
• Dry bag. Place your valuables and electronics inside a dry bag when swimming, as the salt can be very damaging.
• Clothes you don’t mind getting salty.
• Sunscreen. Check out our reef-safe sunscreen favorites.
• Lip balm. The salt and the high temperatures can dry out your lips quickly.
• Water shoes. These will protect your feet from the sharp salt crystals.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Jordan trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Is it Safe to Travel to the Dead Sea?

Jordan shares a border with Israel and the West Bank as well as with Syria. Many guidelines are updated regularly, so you should check before traveling. At the time of writing, only a 3 KM strip of territory along the Syrian border is off-limits.

Read more about travel safety

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• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Jordan via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Things To Do in Petra, Jordan: The Lost City

Wadi rum, jordan: 7 unmissable things to do, canyoning in wadi mujib, jordan: explore the siq trail waterfalls.

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How to Visit the Dead Sea: The Essential Guide for First Time Visitors

Julia December 17, 2020 Israel and Palestine , Jordan Leave a Comment

The Dead Sea is a must visit for any one traveling to the region. However, it’s not always the easiest to get to. With a littler preparation though, you’ll know how to visit the Dead Sea and everything you need to plan your trip. Let’s get to it so you can hit the road, or should I say float the sea, as soon as possible? (Bad humor…. sorry, you can’t take me anywhere.)

Disclosure:  Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

About the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is a landlocked salt lake that is famous for having the lowest elevation on Earth at 423m below sea level (~1,380 feet below sea level). It is also the saltiest (or possibly the second saltiest) body of water in the world. The salinity was actually measured at 34.2% back in 2011. That’s about 9.6x saltier than the ocean! This makes it too salty for marine life to live in, which is how it got its name, the Dead Sea.

Why Visit the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is not only famous for being the lowest elevation on Earth, but also for its water and mud which are said to have healing properties. In fact, the salt and mud are harvested and sent all over the world for home remedies and beauty products.

Where is the Dead Sea located?

The Dead Sea sits in the Middle East between Israel, the West Bank in Palestine, and Jordan. As such, you can technically visit it from any of these areas.

How large is the Dead Sea?

You may be surprised to learn that the Dead Sea is not actually a sea but rather a lake. It is only about 60 km long and 8-12 km wide. This means you will be able to see across to the opposite shore in some locations. You’ll also likely be stunned to find that it sits in an extremely arid, desert-like area.

What is there to do at the Dead Sea?

Ultimately, you’re going to visit the Dead Sea for the experience of floating on one of the saltiest bodies of water, and maybe the fabulous spas! Water sports are not a thing on the Dead Sea, so if you want to spend a few days in the area, definitely book a resort with some activities, like a world-class spa.

How long do you need at the Dead Sea?

As noted above, there are limited activities to do at the Dead Sea, so you can easily visit it as a day trip. But, if you are looking to relax a bit more, spend a few nights at one of the resorts in the area.

How to Get to the Dead Sea

There are a lot of nearby cities you can travel to the Dead Sea from, both in Israel and Jordan. You’ll want to evaluate your overall trip and determine where else you’ll be to decide the best way to get to the Dead Sea.

Visiting the Dead Sea from Israel

If you’re headed to Israel to check out Tel Aviv and Jerusalem , you can easily add on a side trip to the Dead Sea. Now a bit more about options to get there.

Self-Driving from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem

When driving from Jerusalem, you’ll arrive at the Dead Sea in about one hour. It will take closer to 1.5 hours from Tel Aviv. However, trying to find an access point to the shore of the Dead Sea can be a challenge, so I recommend planning out your destination before you head out.

Take the Bus from Jerusalem

Somewhat surprisingly, there is a bus option from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea. Head to the Jerusalem central bus station and catch Egged Bus 486 which will take you to the Dead Sea, Ein Gedi, and/or Masada. (Note there are no buses from Friday afternoon to Saturday evening due to Shabbat.) It will take about 1 hour to reach the public beach, 1.5 hours to reach Ein Gedi. There is also an option to take a bus to Ein Bokek, the resort area in Israel on the Dead Sea. This will take about 2 hours. Find the latest information on buses on the Egged website .

Let Someone Else Handle the Logistics with a Tour

Don’t want to worry about it? There are lots of tour options.

Getting to the Dead Sea from the Jordanian Side

The Dead Sea is an excellent addition to your Jordan bucket list of P e tra and Wadi Rum . Go for a day or spend a few days at one of the many resorts. After all, it’s only about an hour from Amman, the capital of Jordan.

Self Driving or Taxi from Amman

Amman is the best launching point to get to the Dead Sea in Jordan. It is only 37 miles and can be done by renting a car or jumping in a taxi. Taxis in Amman are easy to find and are typically yellow cabs with a licensed driver with a meter. You can also book them in advance from your hotel. Or, Uber is an option as well to book your trip.

Take the Bus from Amman

There are a number of bus and mini-bus options, and this is definitely cheaper than renting a car or taking a taxi. The JETT tourist bus does not run everyday, but they will take you from the 7th Circle bus station to Amman Beach. The other option is to take the minibuses from Muhajireen station in Amman to Rame. From Rame, you can take a taxi to your resort.

Make Your Trip Easy by Taking a Tour

Where to Stay & How to Access the Coast

While you will be able to see the Dead Sea from the road, you will want to find an “access point” to get in the Dead Sea. It could be a resort, spa, or a public beach, all of which are plentiful across Israel and Jordan. Palestine, however, may prove a bit more challenging.

Here’s why you need to plan out where to stop, particularly if you are self-driving:

• The Dead Sea sits a fair distance off the road. In the intense heat there, you do not want to be hiking to reach it.
• There is no shade in most of the Dead Sea region and the sun feels like it is frying you alive. It was well over 100 Fahrenheit when I was there.
• Once you get out of the water, a fresh water shower is really important to get the grease and salt off of your skin. Otherwise the salt will get on anything you touch, and it can erode and discolor items.
• Sinkholes have been opening up recently, particularly along the norther side of the Dead Sea. In fact, over 5,500 sinkholes have emerged along the shoreline. Stay safe – use the beaches!

Finding a Hotel on the Dead Sea in Israel

In Israel, there are a number of options to choose from. From boutique hotels and spas to camping on the beach, you can make the trip your own by selecting what level of luxury you want.

• Camp for Free : There are two stretches of Ein Bokek public beachfront where you can camp for free.
• Budget Friendly Options: HI – Ein Gedi Hostel | Dead Sea Camping
• Mid-range Hotels: Isrotel Ganim Hotel Dead Sea | Oasis Dead Sea Hotel
• Luxury Hotels: Isrotel Dead Sea Hotel | Crowne Plaza Dead Sea Hotel

Determining Where to Stay on the Dead Sea in Jordan

The Jordanian coast of the Dead Sea offers a number of five-star resorts and is often host to conventions and corporate retreats in the area. While you may not find many budget friendly options like in Israel, you do have more affordable high end hotels. Here are some of your best options:

• Mid-range Hotels: Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea | Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort & Spa
• Luxury Hotels: Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa | Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea

My Trip’s Access Point & Experience at Ein Gedi Sea of Spa

As we were self-driving to the Dead Sea, we stopped at Ein Gedi Sea of Spa to access the Dead Sea. It has an indoor cosmetics store selling all kinds of Dead Sea products, a spa with 6 thermo-mineral water pools, a corner for the famous mud from the Dead Sea, a swimming pool, and more. My personal favorites were the free tractor rides out to the Dead Sea, some shade coverings in the Sea, and fresh water showers upon return to the main Spa building.

Upon arrival at Ein Gedi Sea of Spa, you can just jump on the shuttle to the seaside.  We were very eager to get in the water and highly enjoyed the water, floating, and taking pictures. At the end of the day, they will give you a five minute warning for the last trailer back inland. From there, definitely hit the fresh water showers. It will feel amazing in the heat!

Must Know Tips for Visiting the Dead Sea

Here are some tips for making your trip to the Dead Sea a success. Do not make some of the mistakes I made!

• Being the lowest place on Earth, it is actually much harder to sunburn here, although sunscreen is still recommended due to the brutal Middle Eastern sun.
• Due to the high salt content, it is super easy to float in the Dead Sea. There are actually precautions to only float on your back as trying to float on your stomach increase your chances of drowning as your legs and arms will be floating too high to turn over easily.
• Do not put your head underwater! The salt will sting your eyes, nose, ears, etc. This includes being careful about scratching your eyes while in the water. Trust me… it burns.
• Wear water shoes or sandals because the rough salty shore and bottom of the sea can cut your feet.
• As the weather is pretty warm year round, the water is very hot. Think bath water. Be prepared!
• Do not shave the day of or day before visiting. It will burn intensely from the high salt content. Same if you have an open wound. It will sting.
• Remove jewelry prior to entering the water. The high salt content will tarnish most surfaces, although it can be shined afterwards.
• The water has an almost greasy feel to it and even after you get out, your skin will be slick and salty from the water. Definitely shower in fresh water as soon as you can.

Find Additional Resources for Nearby Cities and Sites

Now that you know how to visit the Dead Sea, it’s time to tackle your trip at a higher level. Where else do you want to go? Here are some posts to help you decide:

• Tel Aviv: Finding Paradise in the Middle East
• Exploring Jerusalem: The Holy City
• Oh Little Town of Bethlehem
• Visiting Petra and Wadi Musa
• Spending a Night in the Wadi Rum Desert
• How to Get an Egyptian Visa in Aqaba, Jordan
• Taking the Ferry from Jordan to Egypt: A Local Experience

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Visiting the Dead Sea (Including Crucial Safety Tips)

• By Traveling Anne
• January 6, 2024
• In Israel Travel Advice

33 Comments

The Dead Sea - a small lake located at the lowest point on the face of the earth - is a true natural wonder. It offers travelers pure white crystal formations, sulphuric mud, and water so salty you can float on it while reading the paper.

You can visit the Dead Sea from Jordan or Israel. We've visited it many times on the Israeli side, so today, I am sharing a concise guide to visiting the Dead Sea in Israel .

(This post was originally posted in 2016, but I've revised it and added a lot of new information, so I'm re-publishing it.)

The Dead Sea is an inland body of water that is located between Israel, the West Bank, and Jordan along the Jordan River Valley. It is so-called because the high mineral content in the water allows almost nothing to live within it.

This place is truly a top-league curiosity of nature. Standing there deep inside the deep Jordan Valley, next to the super salty water, brings up many questions about the place.

I will try to provide some answers about this natural wonder further down the post once we get past the practical aspects of visiting the Dead Sea.

I'm going to assume that you're reading this post because you are planning a trip to the Dead Sea. Maybe you're already in Israel and need quick tips about getting to the place and how to spend your time there.

Or maybe you're still researching for a future trip to the Holy Land. Either way, I will try to help you by explaining how to visit the Dead Sea, what to do when there, and also - and this one is important! - how to visit it safely.

Once we sort these things out, don't forget to keep reading so you can get to the little Dead Sea FAQ I prepared with information about how the place was formed (and a few other tidbits). Oh, and photos! Tons of beautiful photos of the Dead Sea - just in case you're not sure if you should visit or not 😉

How to get to the Dead Sea in Israel

Where is the dead sea.

The Dead Sea is not really a sea. Rather, it's a (very!) salty lake east of Jerusalem. The border between Jordan and Israel goes through the middle of the lake, running from north to south. There's another border of sorts on the Israeli side: the one between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

Without getting into the politics of the matter, it bears keeping in mind that the northern part of the Dead Sea is, in fact in Palestinian territory that's under Israeli military control. I colored the areas in this map to show how the Dead Sea is divided. The Jordanian areas are covered in red, the Palestinian in green, and the Israeli in blue -

I know nothing about visiting the Dead Sea from the Jordanian side. I mean, I do know it's possible, but I can't help you with too much information about that. While there is no state of war between Jordan and Israel, for various reasons, people from these two countries seldom visit each other.

Sad, but true. A vehicle with Jordanian plates is a rare site in Israel, and I'm sure the same is true and vice versa.

I'm mentioning this to let you know that if you happen to be visiting both countries during your trip, you'll be able to visit the Dead Sea from both shores. This guide focuses on visiting the Israel side.

Visiting the Dead Sea from Jerusalem

The Dead Sea is approximately 30 miles or 50 kilometers away from Jerusalem. Driving the distance, you'll be going from an elevation of approximately 2400 feet (740 meters) to -1,410 (or -400 meters).

Yes, that number is negative - you are going to the lowest point in the world! My point is that it's pretty much a steep descent, which means switchbacks and slow driving during parts of the way. Also, much of the way goes through the urban suburbs of Jerusalem.

The bottom line is that it's not as short a drive as expected. Assuming you're not leaving during rush hour, it should be about an hour to reach the northern edge of the Dead Sea.

Taking the bus

Taking the bus from Jerusalem won't be much slower than driving in this case, so it's a good option. Bus route 468 will take you from the Central Bus Station in Jerusalem to Kalya Beach on the northern tip of the Dead Sea in about an hour and a half.

It will take longer if you want to get to the beaches in the Ein Bokek area (the southern end of the sea). It's only an extra 20-30 minutes by car. The bus will take about an hour longer to get to that area because it stops along the way. It's a beautiful drive either way.

Just keep in mind that if you want to get the full experience and spend time in the southern end of the sea, staying over for the night may be a good idea. I'll discuss where to stay further in this post.

Visiting the Dead Sea from Tel Aviv

There are two ways to reach the Dead Sea from the Tel Aviv area. I'm mentioning that city because -

• It's one of the largest cities in Israel.
• That's the area of the country's main airport.
• It's where you should spend a day or two for all the awesome things to do in Tel Aviv !

So, you can take one of two routes when visiting the Dead Sea by car from the Tel Aviv area. The first goes through Jerusalem and the Palestinian area.

Driving is safe, but you will go through at least one military checkpoint. The other route goes south of Palestinian territories, bypassing the green areas on the map through the town of Arad.

Both roads are perfectly safe for you to go through if driving a car. Follow the shortest bus route if you're visiting the Dead Sea using public transport. It almost always means getting to Jerusalem and taking a bus from there.

If you intend to visit the Dead Sea on a day trip using public transportation, do that from Jerusalem. From Tel Aviv, the entire trip will take you about two hours if you drive your own car and 3-4 hours if you're taking a bus.

That's each way. The bus option takes long enough to justify at least one-night stayover in the area. Either that or take your day trip from Jerusalem.

Organized tours to the Dead Sea

These are always an option. If you Google the "Dead Sea tours," you'll find many options from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. These tours are what they are. They will get you to the place and save you a lot of the hassle. Some may offer a guided tour that will possibly add to the experience.

The cons are those of organized tours everywhere else on the globe. You pay more, and you have less flexibility. And there will probably be a tour of at least one gift shop...

How and where can you get to the water?

When visiting the Dead Sea, bathing in the super salty water is a must-do. There are several beaches along the Israeli coastline of the Dead Sea where you can park your car and walk down to the water.

In the northern part of the Dead Sea, you'll find  Kalia Beach & Biankini Beach right next to each other. Both have swimming pools, showers, bars and restaurants.

In the southern part, the Ein Bokek beaches and the recently renovated promenade that connects them. Most of these are public, so they are free to use. There is a parking fee of 5 shekels per hour (or 25 for the entire day).

The locals know this area as "the hotels zone." If you're looking for a mud spa experience, you can find it in the hotels - most of which run their own small beaches.

The Ein Bokek beaches have everything you need, including lifeguard services, showers, restrooms, and a strip of sand with boardwalks going right into the water.

There are restaurants nearby, including a local McDonalds. I wouldn't recommend their chain normally, but if you want to say you had your Big Mac at the lowest place on earth, there's your chance 😉

When is the best time to visit the Dead Sea?

To help you plan your visit more effectively, we've compiled a detailed table with climate data specific to the Dead Sea region. This table includes information on average temperatures, rainfall, and other relevant weather patterns throughout the year.

By reviewing this data, you can get a clearer picture of what to expect during different months and choose the best time for your trip based on your personal preferences and comfort.

The table is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of the seasonal variations in the Dead Sea area. Whether you're looking to avoid summer's extreme heat or seek the most temperate times for outdoor activities, this table will be an invaluable resource in your planning process.

Please find the detailed climate table below:

See what I mean by "very hot"? If you're visiting the Dead Sea during July, expect it to be extremely hot . Over 105°F hot at noon on some days, and not much cooler on others. I prefer not to soak in salty water in these temperatures or even cover myself with black mud.

The water is warm enough to swim in throughout the year. In fact, in August, the average water temperature in the Dead Sea reaches 33.5°C or 92°F which may feel too warm (especially considering it's 105 outside!) In the coldest month of the year - February - the water only gets as cold as 20°C / 70°F which most people consider nice enough to get into the water.

So, what's the ideal time for visiting the Dead Sea and floating in the salty water?

My vote goes for springtime and late autumn -

• March-April The outside temperature is warm, 25-30° Celsius or 70-80's if you're using Fahrenheit. If you avoid sun exposure during mid-day, you'll enjoy being outside and exploring the beaches. Water temperature will be in the 70s (around 23 degrees Celsius), so you can always cool off in the sea.
• November-December With daytime temperatures in the 70s, you can enjoy hiking in the Judean desert or exploring the beaches. The water temperature is a sweet 80°F during November and only gets a few degrees lower in December. Perfection.

They're not super busy either. We were there a couple of months ago - in February. It was a beautiful, warm winter day, and people went into the water.

Where to stay while visiting the Dead Sea?

The Dead Sea is only an hour away from Jerusalem by car, making it a great destination for a day trip while staying at the ancient capital of Israel.

The sun, sea, and mud are known for their medicinal properties, so many people stay closer to the Dead Sea for several days to treat skin problems like psoriasis. Fortunately, you can stay in many places, including campgrounds, B&Bs, hostels, and hotels.

The following paragraphs include affiliate links to Booking.com, where I make hotel reservations. If you book through these links, I get a small commission without it costing you anything extra, so thank you in advance!

Kibbutz Ein Gedi Hotel - This beautiful kibbutz is right by the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. Combine hiking in the gorgeous Wadi David or Wadi Arugot (more on that further down this post) with a visit to the Kibbutz's private beach on the Dead Sea (entrance fee to the beach is included in the price of your stay).

Ein Gedi Hostel is a great find for those on a budget. Clean, air-conditioned rooms with WiFi near the nature reserve and the beach. Book your rooms in advance because they are very popular with locals and travelers.

Metsoke Dragot Hostel - Another value option for the budget traveler. Here, you can book a single bed/mattress in a large tent and still enjoy the facilities of the compound and the amazing views. The hostel is a few miles away from the beaches, so if you're relying on public transportation, this may not be a good option.

If you want to stay closer to the public beaches of Ein Bokek , you'll find a great choice of hotels.  Isrotel Ganim Hotel Dead Sea offers all the amenities of a big hotel, a pampering spa, and a great location only a two-minute walk from the beach. Another popular choice is  Royal Hotel Dead Sea  with its indoor pools of Dead Sea water. Click here to see more options by Booking.com in the Ein Bokek area . 

Just south of Ein Bokek, you will find the lowest settlement in the world: Neve Zohar. There are several accommodation options in Neve Zohar, some surprisingly affordable. Check out the Dead Sea Zimmer, a small guesthouse with clean, air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi at affordable rates.

Safety Issues - know before you dive in!

The Dead Sea can look very peaceful and inviting. Everyone knows you can easily float in the Dead Sea, so surely you won't ever drown in there, right?

Quite the opposite. More people drown at the Dead Sea than in any other body of water in Israel. The Dead Sea can easily become a real death trap. Here's why:

The water is salty. Extremely salty. Regular seawater contains approximately 3.5% salt. The water of the Dead Sea contains contains 33.7% salt. It's almost ten times saltier than the ocean.

A healthy human skin can handle this salinity level, but you're in trouble if you swallow only a few spoonfuls of water or inhale just a few drops. This is especially true for older people or those with a heart condition.

According to Magen David Adom - the Israeli medical emergency services - most people who drown in the Dead Sea stumble in the water. They fall and get their head underwater for a few seconds, either swallowing or breathing in some of the salty solution. That is enough to require emergency medical care. Technically speaking, they have drowned in the Dead Sea.

Safety guidelines for visiting the Dead Sea -

• Always keep your head out of the water.
• Never go into the water where there is no lifeguard on duty. All of the official beaches have them.
• You may see no waves, but the winds can easily carry you away from the beach. Follow the lifeguard's instructions and stay out of the water if it's windy.
• Walk slowly and carefully. Don't run into the water.
• Whatever you do, do not jump into the Dead Sea!
• No splashing around.
• No alcohol before or during your swim. This place is dangerous, and you need to keep your senses sharp.
• Be careful when getting up if you decide to float on your back. Flipping over on your stomach can be risky. If it happens, don't panic and regain your footing without getting your head under the water.
• If you get water in your eyes, try not to touch them with your hands. Stay calm and ask for assistance. Have someone lead you out of the water and towards the nearest showers where you can wash your eyes with fresh water.
• Be prepared for some pain. Any scratch will hurt. A lot. That's not dangerous but unpleasant (tip: don't shave your legs before bathing in the Dead Sea!)
• Thoroughly wash the salt off your body when you get out of the water.

If you're with kids, make sure they know the rules and can stay calm if water gets into their eyes.

If you need emergency medical help anywhere in Israel, call 101 from any phone.

Other than that, have fun! Visiting the Dead Sea is a unique experience, so make the most of it. The water of the Dead Sea is like nothing you'll ever experience. It doesn't even feel like water! For some reason, all of that salt makes the water feel oily.

Bathing in the Dead Sea is certainly a Bucket List experience, so make sure someone takes your photo as you're floating  -

What else is there to see around the Dead Sea?

The most important places to visit around the Dead Sea area are:

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

Qumran national park.

Each of these places deserves a post in its own right. And they're not the only things to see around the Dead Sea. This is where the mountains of the Judean desert slope down dramatically into the rift of the Jordan River.

It's the biblical home of Sodom and Gomorrah. The place is rich in beauty and history, and you could easily spend 2-3 days or more exploring everything.

To ensure you won't miss out on the important stuff, here are descriptions of the three places I mentioned. If you can spend a few days visiting the Dead Sea area and getting to all three, you won't regret it.

I bet you've heard of this one already. It's one of the most popular attractions in Israel that tourists - especially Jewish tourists - flock to. This is the ancient fortress where the people of Judea fought against the Romans in the first century.

Well, "fought against" is probably not the right term. A local extremist group rebelled against the Roman occupation. The Roman Empire didn't like rebellions and tended to squash them quite methodically, as they did here.

When the rebels realized they had no way of winning or even holding off the Romans forever, they decided to kill themselves rather than be enslaved. Thousands of people - men, women, and children - drew lots to be killed by one another, with the last one committing suicide. Two women and five children managed to hide and survive this self-inflicted massacre.

Crazy story. It was well documented in writings from that period, making it a special place for archaeologists and historians to discover and excavate. As a visitor, you can ride up to the fortress in a cable car or hike up or down to the fortress. Going to Masada to view the sunrise over the Dead Sea is a classic hike.

How to see Masada when visiting the Dead Sea

There are two ways to get to Madasa: an eastern and a western access. The eastern gate is connected by road to the Dead Sea. It's a very short drive from the beaches to Masada in that direction.

Here's a link to the official site of the Masada National Park (in English) . Check it out for all the practical details of visiting this special place.

A beautiful oasis in the Judean desert, this place is worth at least half a day to visit properly. First, the nature reserve itself. Imagine streams of clear water flowing through the desert mountains with lovely trees and greenery along your hike. You're likely to see ibexes along the way, too.

There are two great hikes in the reserve. They're short and will take 1-2 hours each, depending on your fitness level.

While in the area, you may want to visit the Ein Gedi kibbutz. They have a lovely botanical garden that's worth seeing.

Find out more about the Ein Gedi reserve here. I can't find an official website for the botanical garden there, but I wrote to them to ask if they have one.

Either way, it's open daily and is located in the kibbutz. And don't forget you can stay in the kibbutz too . A great experience, and it's good to be right next to where you're hiking and spending time.

Another archeological gem - no shortage of those in Israel - this place is where they found the famous Dead Sea scrolls. You can visit the archeological site that dates back to the 2nd century BC and see the display of artifacts excavated on the site. Of course, the scrolls are displayed in the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.

Located at the northern tip of the Dead Sea, this is a very interesting place to visit if you have a few days in the area. Check out the official park site for more information.

The Dead Sea FAQ

As promised, a few trivia tidbits about the Dead Sea.

Does anything live in the Dead Sea?

For most of human history, people assumed that no life, either plant or animal, could survive in the Dead Sea because of its high mineral content. However, Bacteria have existed in the sea’s waters since the 1930s.

In 2011, according to Scientific American, a team of divers found several hot springs 100 feet below the surface of the Dead Sea. They found biofilms, slimy layers of bacteria adhering to the springs’ rocks, green biofilms on top that feed on sunlight and sulfide, and white biofilms that feed just on sulfide.

Interestingly, the bacteria that make up the  biofilms  have adapted to cope with the sudden shifts in the water’s salinity as the currents shift.

What created the Dead Sea?

According to Encyclopedia Britannica , the Dead Sea was formed millions of years ago when the Arabian Tectonic Plate collided with the Eurasia Tectonic Plate, creating the landmass comprising modern Israel, the West Bank, and Jordan.

The sea was created in the fracture between the two plates. At one time, the Dead Sea was a vast inland body of water that ran 200 miles from the Hula Valley in the north to 40 miles south of its present southern limits. The Dead Sea is isolated from the Gulf of Aqaba by a 100-foot-long ridge of the Wadi Al  Arabah .

Why is the Dead Sea so salty?

Starting 2.5 million years ago, the  streamflow  into the Dead Sea deposited rock salt, gypsum, clay, shale, and other minerals into the Dead Sea. Later, another stratum that included minerals such as soft chalk and marl was deposited into the sea.

Over the past 10,000 years, the Dead Sea shrank to its current dimensions because the lake evaporated faster than rain could replenish it. Even though the Jordan River feeds the Dead Sea, Israel, and Jordan divert some of the river waters dividing the two countries.  According to Live Science, the sea has begun to recede three feet yearly, rendering it even more salty.

While the ocean typically contains 3.5 percent salt, the Dead Sea has ten times as much dissolved salt. Locals extract some of the minerals from the sea, especially potash, used to create fertilizer.

What are the sinkholes in the Dead Sea, and are they dangerous?

Live Science also notes  that sinkholes exist in the Dead Sea because of the diversion of Jordan River water that feeds the sea. As the salty water recedes, fresh water from underground sources arises from the hot springs, dissolving the layers of salt left behind and creating large cavities underground.

Sinkholes can open at any time above these cavities, creating a danger for visitors and locals alike. The sinkholes can be as much as 80 feet deep and 130 feet in diameter. No one has been killed yet, but the sudden appearance of these sinkholes has proven to be a major problem.

One solution discussed is building a canal from the Red Sea to the Dead Sea. Such a canal would replenish the Dead Sea, keeping it from disappearing altogether.

The canal would also provide a new water source to the surrounding area and electricity with the addition of a hydroelectric dam. Financing problems and geopolitical tensions have thus far stymied the project, but both countries involved  have recently expressed good hopes  that the project will soon go forward.

How deep is the Dead Sea?

The Dead Sea is the lowest body of water below sea level, about 1,412 feet. Until the mid-20 th  century, the depth of the sea was measured at about 1,300 feet. However, because of the diversion of Jordan River water and the extraction of Dead Sea water for its minerals, the level had dropped about 100 feet by the  mid-2010s .

Can you swim in the Dead Sea?

USA Today notes  that swimming in the Dead Sea is virtually impossible because of the high salt content.  A human being floats in the sea without any support. The water is so dense that swimming can be a chore and too tiring for very long.

Visitors often relax in the Dead Sea as if lying on dry land, reading and sunbathing. Because the water is so dense, sinking in the Dead Sea without special diving equipment is virtually impossible. A denser rock or something denser than the water would sink easily.

Can you drown in the Dead Sea?

Since one cannot sink in the Dead Sea, the conventional wisdom is that one cannot drown in it. Certainly, one cannot drown in the sea in the conventional sense by slipping below the surface. However, as mentioned in the safety section, people can and do drown in the Dead Sea all the time.

Since this is a safety issue, it bears explaining once again. The reason one can drown in the Dead Sea has to do with its density due to the high salt content. People who bathe in the sea usually do so on their backs. However, if one finds oneself lying face down in the Dead Sea, one can get into serious trouble.

In ordinary fresh or ocean water, swimmers use their arms to get face-up again. However, this maneuver is far more difficult because the Dead Sea is so dense. To top that off, the sea water is so salty that swallowing just a little bit can poison one’s internal organs and destroy the body’s electrolyte balance.

Fortunately, lifeguards can pull bathers who get into trouble out as long as you go to one of the official beaches mentioned in this post during their hours of operation.

Photos of the Dead Sea

Finally, some eye candy for the pinners in the crowd! I'm one, too, so please follow me on Pinterest !

How about you? Have you ever visited the Dead Sea? Would you consider adding this experience to your Bucket List? Let me know in a comment!

Looking for more unique adventures in the Holy Land? Check out my other posts about traveling in Israel!

It means the world to us to hear such positive feedback on our blog posts. We strive to create valuable content for our readers and it’s always encouraging to hear that it’s making an impact.

I learned alot through your post, love our blog so much!

I am going next month, but is it safe for someone who has hemmoroids?

Hi Linda, Good question. From Googling the question (in Hebrew) I’ve seen doctors that say that there may be a burning sensation when hemorrhoids are in contact with the saltwater of the Dead Sea. I guess a lot depends on the severity, location etc. Because these are such extreme conditions, with any medical condition, I would advise consulting with your physician about this.

Thanks so much for a super useful post! 🙂

Hi! Thanks for such a detailed post! Do you have any experiences with renting a car an driving to the dead sea via Jerusalem from Tel Aviv? Most rental car agreements mention that it is not allowed to drive into palestine area..

Sorry for the late reply, Lena! There’s a way to get to the Dead Sea that doesn’t take you through the Palestinian areas. If you use Google Maps for the route between Tel Aviv and Ein Bokek, that will take you through the town of Arad. This keeps you 100% within pre-67 lines, for sure, all the way to Kibbutz Ein Gedi (and beyond). Now, north of Ein Gedi, you’ll technically be entering post-67 areas which means this is “the territories”. However, there will be no roadblocks on your way because this area is inhabited by Israelis. If you try to keep going north to get back to Jerusalem, then you will encounter a roadblock as you enter Jerusalem.

I doubt the rental company will consider this Palestinian Territory either, but you never know with insurance companies (and this is down to insurance, in the end). I would either ask them directly in an email before heading out or just stick to the southern half of the Dead Sea, including Ein Gedi and Ein Bokek. This is also where Massada is and it’s generally the prettier area IMO anyway.

Thanks very much for the information which is very much helpful and i have two questions for you…..1) what are the benefits of dead sea? is it useful beyond skin issues, coz one of my friend’s doctor suggested her to visit to dead sea and see the difference as she is suffering from breast cancer (i feel sorry and sorrow to say this) 2) How is it different visiting Dead Sea in Jordan Compared to Israel , is it same or anything different? Thanks

Hi Suresh, Sorry to hear about your friend! I never heard of any connection with cancer of any type. The only therapeutic value I’m aware of is for psoriasis patients. No idea about Jordan, I’m afraid. I’ve never crossed the border so I can’t really compare the two options.

Hi! Great post about visiting the Dead sea! I am going to visit Israel in November and I was wondering where did you stop by the Dead sea and where can be found those beautiful tourqisue lagoons?

Hi Spela, The color of the water depends on the lighting and time of day. It can get that color in various places along the coast. The thing is, the coast isn’t accessible along most of the northern section because of sinkholes. So, the best bet of getting close to the water is by going to one of the beaches mentioned in the post. On a sunny day, you should be seeing the turquoise lagoons in any of them.

This was a great read. My family and I are visiting in October. I see a bunch of “tours” that cost quite a bit. But if we’re driving, do we need to worry about any “entry fee”? Or just parking?

Thanks again! Mona

Hi Mona, I guess that would depend on the specific tour. I would expect them to cover all fees, maybe outside of meals. I’m not sure which tour allow you to drive your own car though. I would definitely contact them for all the details in advance, just to make sure.

Thank you very much for this article and honestly all of your website. I’m planning a trip to Israel in October, and I probably won’t rent a car. So I was wondering, if we have an overnight, what do you suggest? Let’s say one day a the beach, and with your recommandations, which one, and the other day, Ein Gedi or Massada? And if I don’t have time for an overnight, that I am in Jerusalem, but I want to swim in the sea and have a nice point of view, what do you recommend? (Accessible by bus)

Thank you very much again for all this informations. My trip will be absolutely awesome with all your tips !

Hi Sophie, So glad you find this helpful! If you’re staying in Jerusalem and just want to visit the Dead Sea for the day going on a bus, your best option is probably the northern beaches. There would be an entrance fee but it’s a shorter drive from Jerusalem so that you get more time there. As I just replied to another question, Biankini beach was just recommended to me by a friend who visited recently. It has all the facilities, including mud. According to their website (in Hebrew), it costs 80NIS on a weekday.

If you can stay overnight, I would go further south. If you you just want to enjoy the beach and combine this with a visit of Massada then the beaches of Ein Bokek should be your destination. I would start by checking these using the map options. If at all possible, I would consider renting a car for a couple of days. It will allow you more flexibility and save you on waiting times for the bus. With a car, you could easily visit the beaches, the Ein Gedi streams (at least one hike) and Massada the following day. You can even overnight at the Massada campground and catch the night show there (check their website to see which days of the week it’s available). Last but not least, October is holiday season in Israel, so check your dates carefully and plan accordingly. Everywhere is bound to be busier and more expensive. IF you’re not familiar with local holidays, check out this post . Good luck and enjoy your trip!

Thank you so much for your articles about Israel. We are going on a tour and your articles have been super helpful!

Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment, Ronna – I hope you have a wonderful time visiting Israel!

Hi Anne… planning on going in November . Where do we go for the mud bathe? Are showers available to rinse off

There are showers available at all beaches. It’s super important to have them to wash off the salty water, so you can count on showers and running water wherever there’s a proper beach. For the mud, it’s hard to get by in recent years as some beaches were closed to the public because of the risk of sinkholes.

At this point, you have one of three options. 1. Go to any spa hotel there. They offer daily spa packages and they always offer large mud packets too. 2. Try the Biankini beach where they still have some traditional mud stands according (according to a friend who’s been there recently). There’s an entrance fee though of 80NIS on Sun-Wed and 100NIS on Thurs-Sat. I couldn’t find a website in English for the beach but it’s fairly well-known. It’s also the first beach coming from the north , so it’s a relatively short drive from Jerusalem. If using public transportation, ask the bus driver to drop you at Lido Junction or just tell him/her you’re going to Biankini beach. There’s about 10 minutes of walking time from the bus station to the beach. 3. Go to the Ein Bokek beaches mentioned in the post. They’re free and very well-maintained (and have showers). Go into one of the hotels there and purchase packets of muds and then apply them while at the beach.

I hope this helps!

Would you recommend wearing water shoes into the Dead Sea? In some photos, it looks like the shore is soft sand, but in other photos, I noticed it looks rocky. Thanks in advance!

Hi Yolanda, Yes, some beaches are sandy and others are rocky. It’s interesting how that changes from one beach to another, isn’t it? It’s the same in the Sea of Galilee though the beaches of the Mediterranean in Israel are almost always sandy (thanks to the sand and silt coming from the Nile, of all places!) I’m sensitive to rocks and stones in the water so I do use shoes. They can be water shoes or crocs or basically any footwear you feel comfortable with. And you may not need it at all, again, depending on the exact beach. Just remember to rinse the shoes thoroughly after use or they’ll turn white from all the salt in the water. Enjoy your trip to the Dead Sea!

Hi. Sorry but I forgot the other part of the question. We intend to hike from Metzoke Dragot to Ein Gedi and Hamei. What do you think? Is it a main road, a small road or a track? Thank you

Hello. We will hike the INT in october november but with a spin off to the dead sea and Masada. What can you tell me about the Dead Sea Coast Hike? Is there a map? No major problems? Thank you for an answer. Edouardo

Hi Edouardo, As far as I can tell, the coast can be inaccessible in many points. What visitors usually do is go to certain beaches where the water is accessible. My guess is that’s why the INT doesn’t actually go through the Dead Sea. What’s more, there are some gorgeous slot canyons in the area that might be more rewarding for hikers (compared to just walking along the water/road. I found this map that suggests a route from the Dead Sea to Eilat. Most of it is the same as the INT but it adds the Dead Sea area. As you can see, they go through various canyons in the area, not just along the coast – https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_DXc1YJDxkHUGFHWkM1eDZXWnc/view

If you intend on hiking the entire way, I suggest contacting local hiking groups for more information. Not only is this a desert (so you need to know where to go, where you can get water etc) but there may also be military zones along the way. It’s not dangerous per se but you need to know where you’re going exactly. Local hikers can also help you with maps. To the best of my knowledge people use apps for that today (there’s cell phone reception almost everywhere).

I just noticed your other comment. Ein Gedi is great. Metzoke Dragot is beautiful but this is in fact in the West Bank, so again, you need to know where you’re coming from and where you’re going to. I’m thinking military fences and checkpoints here. I’m asking around for you about hiker groups that might be able to help you with more details.

Thanks so much!!!

Hi Anne, great information! Can you tell me if their are day trip tours from Jerusalemto the Dead Sea & Masada or am I better off renting a car as I would like to go to other locations in the area & Northern Israel. Any other suggestions you like to give I will very much appreciate. Thanks again!

Hi Kay, I think either would be fine, really. Northern Israel and the Dead Sea would be hard to fit into one day. You can take one day for the Dead Sea and maybe part of the south by adding Makhtesh HaGadol. Here’s a possible route . That could work if you’re looking for a road trip without doing any hiking. If you want to incorporate hiking (and you should unless it’s summertime) then one day wouldn’t be enough for that.

So, you could rent a car for several days and then tour the northern parts (or southern) in depth. Alternatively, you could join a guided day tour or even just take the bus. You can use Google Maps to find out which buses will take you from Jerusalem to Ein Gedi and then to Ein Bokek. You could even stay the night in one of these kibbutzim or a bus back to Jerusalem. The bus drive would be about an hour and a half to two hours each way.

Thank you so much for this handy guide! We are amateur photography enthusiasts and were hoping to find the salt formations. Do you know where we can find them?

I’m glad you liked the post, Rachel! There’s no easy answer as to where you can see the salt formations. Generally speaking, the further south you go, the better are your odds. The southern part of the Dead Sea is made up of shallower pools so you’re more likely to see salt formations coming out of the water. However, a lot depends on the water level and that changes not only by season but also by how much water the Dead Sea mineral plants decide to put into the lake. When they decide to harvest more minerals, they bring down the water level in the pools and you get to see more formations like the ones in the pictures. There’s also the question of accessibility. Some of the beaches are readily accessible, while others are not.

The road goes along the beaches, so your best bet is to stay by the southern part of the Dead Sea and then drive slowly along the coast, and keep an eye out for formations. Once you see something nice, pull over and evaluate accessibility according to your own level of fitness. If you’re lucky and the water level is low, you’ll probably get to see the formations at the hotels area (Ein Bokek). Good luck! If you come back with more tips, please do share them here!

Hey! Great article!!! Only one question, where are the two last pictures taken at exactly? It looks amazing and I am going there later on this month! Thx in advance!

Glad you like it! I am not the photographer but I believe they were taken just south of Ein Bokek beach. That’s where you have the shallow emerald pools with the salt ridges between them and that’s where Road 90 passes by the beach and has palm trees on the roadside (if you look carefully, you can see the road in the picture). Oh, and I didn’t take the photos without permission or anything, I bought them (just to clarify, I can’t stand it when people just grab photos from wherever on the net). Enjoy your visit and do let me know if you have any more questions. I’ll do my best to answer them!

I have always wanted to go to Israel,The Dead Sea a must as I have psoriasis.I would work there if given the chance so I may stay and live there for a while..

Hi Tina. Yes, the Dead Sea would be wonderful for you. You may want to look into staying with one of the Kibbutzim there, as they may offer long-term stays that include use of the communal dining room.

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Your Ultimate Guide To Visiting the Dead Sea

Are you looking for a new travel destination? The Dead Sea is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It offers something for everyone, from its therapeutic waters to its stunning landscapes. There’s no better place to relax and rejuvenate than the Dead Sea.

With this guide, you can plan your perfect trip to the Dead Sea. We’ve included everything you need to know, from how to get there to what to pack.

So let’s jump in!

What is the Dead Sea?

The Dead Sea is a salt lake located in the Jordan Rift Valley, on the border of Israel and the West Bank. It is the lowest point in the world at 394.6 meters below sea level. The Dead Sea gets its name because its salt concentration is so high that very few organisms can survive in it.

Therapeutic Properties of the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea has been a popular destination for travelers due to its therapeutic and healing properties. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Israel (and Jordan), boasting a unique combination of natural beauty and health benefits.

The Dead Sea’s high salt concentration makes it so beneficial. Its mineral-rich mud and water are full of magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which can help to improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation and relieve muscle pain. The high salt content also makes it a great spot for swimming and relaxation. Soaking in the Dead Sea can help to reduce stress, improve circulation and even promote better sleep.

How to get to the Dead Sea

There are several options available for getting to the Dead Sea. The most popular and simplest way of arriving is by car.

Renting from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, both of which are only about two hours away from the Dead Sea, is typically quite easy and affordable.

When traveling by rented car, you should make sure and research your routes beforehand. I recommend using an online navigation system, such as Google Maps or Waze, to avoid unnecessary delays or detours. Waze was actually developed in Israel and is the most accurate navigation app to use in the country and what I personally use.

With a tour group

Another option is to join one of the many tour groups that run trips to the Dead Sea. These tours typically include accommodation (either on-site at one of the resorts or nearby), meals, organized activities, local guides, and transportation from their departure locations to the Dead Sea itself.

Many tour companies also provide extra services such as trip insurance and spiritual guidance services, which can be particularly useful for foreign visitors looking to take a deep dive into understanding Israeli history and culture.

Combine your visit with nearby destinations

For those wishing to experience more of what this region has to offer along with their visit to the Dead Sea, there are several excursions available that combine both natural beauty and religious significance, such as trips up Masada Mountain or hiking around Qumran where some believe ancient scrolls were found near caves two thousand years ago.

Which Beach To Go To

Ein Bokek Beach is widely considered to be the best beach to visit along the Dead Sea. Located along the southern basin of this turquoise-hued part of the sea, this wide public beach offers travelers plenty of free amenities and activities. From lifeguards to shade shelters, changing booths, and open-air showers, Ein Bokek Beach has everything you need for a perfect day in the sun.

The beach’s sandy shoreline provides a great opportunity for sunbathing or swimming in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. Its spotless sands have been recently renovated and are often illuminated at night by a series of modern lighting fixtures. The paved promenade that follows closely alongside the shoreline makes it easy to navigate around and also offers some beautiful views out into the horizon.

No matter your age or interests, Ein Bokek Beach at the Dead Sea is sure to provide an unforgettable day out in nature’s beauty. With its crystal clear waters and spotless white sand shores, visitors have no shortage of activities to choose from — all surrounded by unparalleled views from this unique location on Earth.

Dead Sea as seen from Masada National Park

What to do at the Dead Sea

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy once you’ve arrived at the Dead Sea.

The most popular activity is swimming and floating in the sea itself. This can be a very relaxing experience, as buoyancy allows your body to float effortlessly. Until you have experienced it, it is difficult to imagine how different this is from a dip in the ocean. While floating is easier than usual, walking is more difficult because your body is so buoyant.

It’s important to take care while swimming here, as the high salt concentration makes it easy to dehydrate quickly.

Another great activity is visiting one of the many spa resorts in the area. These resorts offer a variety of treatments and therapies that take advantage of the healing properties of this unique region. From mud wraps to mineral baths, there are plenty of options available to help you relax and rejuvenate.

There are also many interesting sites to explore near the Dead Sea. These include Masada , where King Herod built a massive fortress, and Qumran , which is believed to be the home of a first-century sect known as the Essenes, who created the Dead Sea scrolls.

And lastly, don’t forget to take a moment and just enjoy the beautiful view of the Dead Sea.

Where to Eat at the Dead Sea

There are a few decent dining options available for those planning to spend a night or two near the Dead Sea. The most popular choice for overnight visitors is to book in for half-board at their hotel, which includes breakfast and dinner.

Several restaurants and cafes serve up delicious Middle Eastern cuisine for those looking for somewhere to dine during their stay. In Ein Bokek, the Taj Mahal is considered by locals to be the best restaurant in town. Offering grilled meats, it is located outdoors in a rustic Bedouin-style tent complete with rugs, pillows, and low couches – making it an authentic and atmospheric experience.

Along the same strip of Ein Bokek, several mini-markets offer limited food supplies if you’re feeling adventurous and wish to cater for yourself.

A little further out from Ein Bokek is Kibbutz Ein Gedi, where you can find restaurants and a grocery store – an ideal place to stock up on picnic supplies if you’re looking for something more casual.

If you’re planning a day trip, you can also pack a picnic lunch with you and enjoy some of your own food on the beach.

What to Bring to the Dead Sea

When traveling to the Dead Sea, it’s important to bring a few essential items and accessories with you.

Firstly, make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats for protection from the sun’s harsh rays.

You should also bring swimwear and a towel if you plan on taking a dip in the sea. They will most likely provide towels if you’re staying at a hotel or resort.

It’s also a good idea to bring some cash with you, as many places in the area don’t accept credit cards. Additionally, you may want to bring along bug spray and comfortable walking shoes if you plan on exploring the nearby sites.

Most importantly, don’t forget to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. I also like to take some snacks for the drive and to have them at the beach.

With these items in tow, you’ll be sure to make the most out of your visit to the Dead Sea.

The best time of year to visit the Dead Sea

If you’re looking for the best time of year to visit the Dead Sea, May through October is typically considered the swimming season. During this period, the weather will be warm enough to enjoy the incredible experience of swimming in salty waters.

In the summer months, the temperatures can get quite hot (up to 47°C), so it’s even more urgent important to stay hydrated and wear plenty of sunscreen.

If you’re worried about the heat, book your trip for the shoulder seasons, April-May or September-October, when the weather is still warm but milder.

Safety Tips For Visiting the Dead Sea

Visiting the Dead Sea can be a truly unique and rewarding experience, but the salt-filled waters and intense heat mean it is important to take proper safety precautions. Here are some tips for making your trip to the Dead Sea a safe and enjoyable one:

1. Before you go, don’t shave anywhere for at least two days so that any scratches or cuts won’t sting in the salty water.

2. Wear flip-flops to protect your feet from hot sand and sharp stones. You may also want to bring some water shoes in case you end up going into deeper areas of the sea where there are jagged rocks on the bottom.

3. Don’t wear any jewelry while swimming. Metals will tarnish instantly when exposed to the high concentration of salts in the water.

4. Be very careful not to splash or dunk your head in the water, as this could cause irritation and sting due to its high salinity.

5. Take regular breaks from swimming and sunbathing to hydrate yourself with plenty of fresh drinking water, especially during unusually hot days when temperatures can reach up to 47 °C (117 °F). Ensure you don’t get too dehydrated, as this can pose serious health risks.

6. Pay close attention if westerly winds blow – they could push you out towards Jordan if you aren’t careful.

7. Bring plenty of sunscreen and reapply it regularly as UV rays will be significantly stronger due to reflecting off the clear blue waters of the sea surface. Also make sure that your skin is properly covered with clothing when not wearing sunscreen, particularly during peak midday hours when UV rays are strongest.

Finally, remember that although visiting The Dead Sea can be an amazing experience, it’s important to take all necessary safety precautions so that you don’t inadvertently put yourself at risk by coming into contact with its high concentrations of salt, strong winds, painfully hot sand, and unforgiving rocks.

My Experience Visiting the Dead Sea

My experience visiting the Dead Sea was absolutely unforgettable. The stunning landscape, combined with the calming waters, made for a perfect day of fun and relaxation.

The moment I arrived, I was in awe of the area’s natural beauty. It’s one of those places that truly takes your breath away with its serene yet majestic aura. The combination of salt water and sand creates an amazing reflective effect that can be seen from miles away. It truly is a sight to behold.

Although I have visited multiple times, my last trip there in April with my aunt and cousins was a particularly memorable one.

We rented a car from Tel Aviv and drove directly towards the coasts of the Dead Sea and parked by Ein Bokek Beach.

The weather was slightly cooler than usual, but that didn’t stop us from making the most out of our time there. We decided to take a dip in the iconic saltwater lake and enjoyed floating in the water like nothing else. The bonus of coming in the off-season was that we were able to enjoy the beach without it being too crowded. It was amazing to just soak in the views in this peaceful atmosphere.

We wanted to make it a day trip, so we didn’t book any hotels or dinner reservations. Instead, we packed sandwiches and a lot of fruit to snack on throughout the day. We stayed until evening. Maybe my favorite part was seeing the sunset over the beautiful landscape and reflecting on the salty water.

We drove back to Tel Aviv, and all agreed we needed to do it again soon.

The Dead Sea is an amazing phenomenon located between Jordan and Israel. It is the lowest point in the world and has a very high salt content that makes it difficult to swim in but incredibly buoyant.

I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique, relaxing, awe-inspiring experience.

Have you visited the Dead Sea? Let me know in the comments.

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Visiting the Dead Sea Jordan: Tips + Where to Stay

Home » Blog » Jordan » Visiting the Dead Sea Jordan: Tips + Where to Stay

To float in the lowest, and arguably the saltiest, point on Earth is an experience on many travelers’ bucket lists. In this guide, we’re going over everything you need to know to soak up the mineral-rich water of the Dead Sea in Jordan.

One of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world, the Dead Sea is the perfect spot in Jordan to escape the desert heat and enjoy a spa-like ritual on the salty banks of the lowest point on earth.

The buoyant and mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea have attracted visitors dating all the way back to ancient times. Even the Egyptian Queen, Cleopatra, has relished in the rich, black mud and soaked up the waters impressive mineral composition under the Jordanian sun.

If you’re planning a visit to the Dead Sea in Jordan, we’re going over what to do and what NOT to do while visiting this unique destination. Whether you’re visiting the Dead Sea on a budget or looking for a luxurious stay right on the coast, we’re covering where to stay, important tips, and everything you need to know before you go.

Article contents

Is the dead sea worth visiting.

• General info
• How to get there
• Best time to visit
• Where to swim
• Tips for floating
• Where to stay
• Tips for visiting

Psst! If you’ll be traveling more throughout the country, be sure to check out our bucket list of  unforgettable things to do in Jordan !

First things first, you may be wondering…

The Dead Sea is well-worth a spot on anyone’s bucket list, so it’s absolutely worth visiting. The feeling of floating effortlessly in the water is a pretty unique and unmissable experience if you ask me!

The only exception for a visit to the Dead Sea is if you have already visited the Dead Sea on the Israeli side. The experiences are quite similar on each side, so it’s not necessary to visit twice. However, if you want to treat yourself to the spa-like qualities of the Dead Sea for a second go round, I totally understand.

General info about the Dead Sea Jordan

• Location : On the border between Jordan and Israel
• Elevation: 430.5 meters/ 1,412 feet below sea level
• Depth: 304 meters/ 997 feet deep
• Salinity: 34.2% (9x as salty as the ocean!)

The Dead Sea is the deepest, hypersaline lake that creates the border between Jordan and Israel. Due to its high salinity and density, humans can actually float here instead of sink! 

This salty phenomenon placed in the heart of the beautifully barren desert is a must-see on your trip to Jordan. The Dead Sea is only a 45-minute drive from Jordan’s capital, Amman , making it a perfect day trip from the city or pit stop on a road trip through Jordan.

As stunning and unique as the Dead Sea is, it’s receding at a dramatic rate, around 3 feet every year due to the result of the National Water Carrier scheme that was completed in 1964. There is no other place on earth similar to the Dead Sea, so go and experience it while you still can!

Why is it called the Dead Sea?

Due to the water’s extremely high percentage of salinity, a whopping 34.2%, the harsh environment of the Dead Sea is lethal to plants and animals. Other bodies of water around the world are home to a variety of complex ecosystems, whereas the Dead Sea is only home to microbial fungi and bacteria, hence the name “ dead ”.

How to get from Amman to the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is about a 45-minute drive from Amman, making it a very easy day trip to take from the capital city. 

There are a variety of different ways to get there, but we arranged our transport from Amman with a local driver who had given us his card during an Uber trip. He charged us 50 JOD for round trip service from our Airbnb in Amman to the Kempinski Resort. 

You can expect to pay around 25 JOD for a one way with a driver, but there are a handful of other ways to get to the Dead Sea from Amman:

If you prefer to make the drive yourself or turn it into a stop on your road trip, it’s really quite easy to rent a car in Jordan. We like to use  Discover Cars  to search and compare prices from all the rental car options in the area, and find it generally saves us money in the long run.

Psst! We have an entire guide to getting a rental car in Jordan including where to find the best deals and tips for driving and safety. 

The cheapest way to get from Amman to the Dead Sea is on the JETT bus. This costs around $12 USD and they have trips daily to Amman Beach at the Dead Sea. You’ll board at the 7th Circle bus station and it will take you directly to the beach. You can check schedules and book your tickets online . 

There is another local bus that leaves from the Mujarahin Bus Station and stops in Rame, not directly at the beach. The upfront cost is cheaper to ride this bus, but you’ll have to either walk or take a taxi the rest of the way to the beach, so you really aren’t saving more money by going this route. It’s much better, and cheaper, to get dropped off on the tourist bus.

Taxi / Private Driver

If you want to use a taxi to get to the Dead Sea from Amman, it’s best to negotiate a day trip or roundtrip fare with your driver. Once you’re near the Dead Sea, finding a taxi to get back to Amman will be difficult if you don’t arrange it in advance. 

Like taxis, you can hire a private driver to take you to and from the Dead Sea for a day. Drivers may offer you their cards on the street, but you should be able to arrange something with your hotel. Alternatively, you can book a driver online for a half or full day at the Dead Sea.

Uber works great in Amman and is a great way to get reliable transport from place to place. Expect to pay at least 50 JOD round-trip to the Dead Sea and back. 

If you get an Uber at any point in Amman, it’s worth asking if they would be willing to take you to the Dead Sea and back on the day you like to go. Depending on where on the coast you’re headed, it’s about 45-minutes to the resorts and 50-minutes to Amman Beach.

Organized Tour

There are a variety of Dead Sea guided tours you can take to explore the Dead Sea and many other popular spots in Jordan. This is a great option if you don’t have your own transport and want to see a lot of other sites using a guide. 

Best time to visit the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is nestled in the desert, so it sees sunny skies and warm weather year round. 

The drive from Amman only takes about 45 minutes, but we noticed a major change in the weather from place to place. As we descended into the valley of the Dead Sea, the temperature rose by about 10°F and the partially cloudy skies that covered Amman opened up to pure blue with the sun shining. 

The humidity seemed to rise along with the temperature as well and we found ourselves shedding layers the minute we stepped out of the car’s AC. 

The best time to visit the Dead Sea is during the late fall or early spring months when the weather is more mild. 

Because the weather is much more favorable this time of year (March to late May and late September to November), it’s important to note this is also the peak tourist season. You can  expect public areas on the weekends to be bustling.

Visiting the desert in the summer months (May through August) is notoriously brutal as temperatures can soar up to 115 °F (46°C). The cooler sea water may feel good compared to the air temperature, but exploring around Jordan will be extremely hot and you’ll have to limit your excursions to early morning and late afternoon to escape the heat.

Temperatures don’t dip too low in the winter months as they mainly stay around 70°F (21°C) during the day and drop to the 50s (10-15°C) at night. The weather is a little chillier this time of year and it has the highest likelihood of rain. So, it’s not peak season, but if you don’t mind you can have a little bit more solitude this time of year in the Dead Sea. 

Psst! For an in-depth guide on the regional seasons, weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Jordan .

Where to go swimming in the Dead Sea

On the Jordan side of the Dead Sea, there is public access at Amman Beach . It costs 25 JOD to enter. This is one of the most popular Dead Sea beaches, so note it’ll be pretty busy, especially in the high season. 

If you don’t want to pay to swim in the Dead Sea, there is a location you can access safely for free. It’s just south of where the Wadi Mujib Trail begins. See the location

When you’re driving along the road that parallels the Dead Sea, you’ll notice a lot of places to pull off, but keep in mind there have been sinkholes forming where the sea has receded over the years, so proceed with caution and opt for an established path to access the Dead Sea. 

If you don’t mind paying more for a bit of solitude, you can get a day pass to one of the resorts that have private beaches. It’ll usually cost you 25-75 JOD for the day, but it depends on what resort you go to. Most of them offer a day pass, but not all of them, so you’ll have to call ahead to make sure.

Here are a few notable resorts worth visiting for a private Dead Sea beach experience:

• Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa : 25 JOD, entrance only and no lunch.
• Dead Sea Marriott Resort and Spa : 60 JOD, 25 JOD is given to you for food and drinks at the resort.
• Movenpick Resort and Spa Dead Sea: 50-75 JOD. There are different price tiers that come with food, drinks, and spa access.

Finally, if you want to make a trip of it (and are willing to splurge a bit) you can spend a night or two in one of the resorts with a private beach. More on that in the where to stay section.

Tips for floating in the Dead Sea

• Keep your head above water. It only takes one drop of the Dead Sea’s water in your eye to cause a massive hiccup in your peaceful soak. A small amount won’t do permanent damage, but it will be very painful.
• Avoid splashing. For reasons above try to keep your float still and relaxed.
• Don’t float for more than 10-15 minutes. Because the water is so salty, it’s incredibly dehydrating, even after a minimal amount of time. But this short soak will be plenty of time to reap the benefits.
• Avoid shaving 1-2 days before and after your soak. You may not think it, but the salt will penetrate your pores and it can sting a bit if you’ve recently shaved. 
• Check for wounds before you enter. This is something to note since the salt will remind you of even the tiniest of scratches on your body. The pain generally goes away after a bit, but keep this in mind if you have a larger wound.
• Be mindful of what time you visit. All the hotels on the Dead Sea Jordan side are required to close the beaches when it gets dark out. If you arrive an hour before sunset, you can enjoy most of the golden rays before the beach closes.
• Stay hydrated and drink lots of water. You won’t really notice while you’re floating peacefully in the Dead Sea, but the massive amount of salt will dehydrate your body fast.
• Bring props for fun photos. Take advantage of your effortless floating abilities by bringing a prop or two for pictures. Books are a crowd favorite as you can appear to be defying gravity while being absorbed into the latest adventure novel.
• Wear an old or cheap swimsuit. Just one dip in the Dead Sea can cause discoloration in your swimsuit and it may lose its stretch. The mineral mud may even stain or refuse to come out even after a few washes. It’s also recommended to wear a darker colored suit if you can. 
• Consider bringing water shoes. The salt that lines the sea can be very abrasive on your feet, so bring water shoes or at least wear your flip flops to the edge of the water. 

The Dead Sea ritual

If you are staying at a resort at the Dead Sea, you’ll likely have the opportunity to experience the more “spa-like” Dead Sea Ritual, as explained to us by our hotel attendant:

• The Dead Sea mud has unique mineral properties that are meant to be really good for your skin. It is said to assist in the skin’s detoxification process, draw out excess oil, tighten and firm your skin.
• Wait for the mud to dry completely and take a few selfies in the full length mirrors (or ask the attendant, who was more than happy to be our photographer!).
• Then go for a 10 minute soak to cleanse your skin of the mud. It’s not a good idea to soak more than 10-15 minutes in the Dead Sea or you’ll dehydrate yourself. 
• Afterwards apply a salt scrub with special Dead Sea Salt (also provided in a basin near the beach) for exfoliation. 
• And finally, rinse yourself with fresh water under the shower. 

Where to stay at the Dead Sea Jordan

One of the best ways to experience the Dead Sea is by staying at one of the many stunning properties along its shore.

Budget-friendly properties

Mujib Chalets : This is the perfect option if you want a little more privacy and your own private access to the Dead Sea. Mujib Chalets provide deep immersion into nature and a nice slice of solitude.

Ramada Resort Dead Sea : This is the most budget-friendly option that still offers private access to the sea, which is great for travelers on a budget that still want nice amenities. It’s situated on the northernmost coast of the Dead Sea Jordan side and offers shuttles to the sea every 30-minutes, beginning at 7:30 a.m. 

Mid-range budget hotels

Dead Sea Spa : This is the first resort that opened along the Dead Sea. It’s the perfect option for those with a mid-range budget or if you’re traveling with a family. Dead Sea Spa has the largest beach out of all the other resorts on the shores, is locally owned, and is the best 4-star hotel along the Dead Sea.

Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea : This is a classic and cozy stay right along the northern edge of the sea. This is a great spot for couples and families looking for a beautiful property without breaking the bank. 

Worth the splurge 

Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea : This is where I stayed overnight on my trip to the Dead Sea and I felt it was 100% worth the splurge! This stunning 5-star resort has it all to experience luxury in the desert from meditation and yoga classes, traditional Thai massages, and nine fresh water pools to cool down in.

Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea : This luxurious stay is set up like a traditional Arabic village with almost 20 acres of gardens and a massive spa to relax in. If you’re wanting to splurge to make the most out of your visit to Dead Sea Jordan, this is a top contender.

Tips for visiting the Dead Sea

• Unless you have your own rental car, it’s best to arrange a return trip with your driver before he drops you off at the Dead Sea. 
• The resort fees are steep, but the cost of food and drink is even pricer! Alcohol is the most expensive, so bring a bottle of wine from Amman to stash in your hotel mini fridge if you want to save money. 
• While traveling elsewhere in Jordan you should dress modestly and keep your shoulders and knees covered. However, at the Dead Sea, it was perfectly acceptable to wear whatever you like. I saw plenty of people in shorts, tanks and bikinis. 
• Wear a cheap swimsuit in a darker color if you can. The mud and salt may stain a lighter suit. It’s also a good idea to let your swimwear soak in fresh water and then rinse it thoroughly after you’ve been in the sea.
• Make the most of your complimentary breakfast buffet! Like I mentioned, food is expensive here, so stay a while at the breakfast buffet and see if you can extend that meal into your lunchtime. (At the Kempinski, the buffet was meant to close at 10:30 a.m., but we noticed they were pretty relaxed with this rule.)

Are you planning a trip to Jordan?

We have lots of resources on travel in Jordan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Jordan Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Unforgettable Things to Do in Jordan
• How to Visit Petra Like a Pro: Beyond the Treasury
• Fun Things to Do in Amman, Jordan
• Guide to Hiking Wadi Mujib Canyon in Jordan

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11 Top-Rated Attractions in the Dead Sea Region, Jordan

Written by Jess Lee Updated Sep 16, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Dead Sea is one of Jordan's top tourist attractions , but it's not just about floating in the water itself.

This area is packed full of things to do, from the gentle pursuits of soaking in thermal hot springs to action-packed hike-swims within the waters of the vast canyon of Wadi Mujib.

History-minded travelers aren't left out either. The Dead Sea region is one of Jordan's best places to visit for important sites from both Old Testament and New Testament history, and Kerak Castle is easily included in a Dead Sea day trip even though it's technically not in the Dead Sea region.

Bethany-Beyond-the-Jordan sits at the sea's northern end, and the site were Salome danced to convince Herod Antipas to bring her the head of John the Baptist is set in the sea's border of hills. In the southern section of the Dead Sea, there are archaeological sites related to the story of Lot.

It's a fascinating area to explore and within easy reach as a day trip from either Amman or the town of Madaba.

You could make a good loop, choosing three sites (including a stop to float in the sea itself) to visit along the way on a day tour with a driver. Most taxi drivers in both Madaba and Amman are happy to quote prices to do this, and most hotels have recommended drivers and can fully arrange Dead Sea trips for you.

Find out what there is to see and do in the area with our list of the top attractions in the Dead Sea region.

1. Dead Sea Resort Area

2. dead sea panoramic complex, 3. bethany-beyond-the-jordan, 4. thermal springs of hammamat ma'in, 6. wadi mujib, 7. sodom & gomorrah, 8. lisan peninsula, 9. lot's cave monastery, 10. feynan nature reserve, 11. kerak castle, map of attractions in the dead sea region, jordan.

The beach area of Jordan's Dead Sea coastline, with five-star spa resorts and day-access beach complexes, sits on the northern section of the sea.

Just 60 kilometers southwest from Amman, it's within easy reach from the capital or from Madaba, which lies 40 kilometers to the east.

There are three private beach complexes strung along the shore, which offer day access to the sea and their facilities for an entrance fee. Running north to south, the complexes are Al-Wadi Resort, Amman Beach, and O Beach.

If you are road-tripping the Dead Sea region on a day trip from Amman or Madaba these are the best places to stop off for your Dead Sea float .

All three offer clean strips of stone- and grey-sand beach with sun loungers, picnic tables, sun-shades, and freshwater showers on the beach.

The complexes behind the beach area at all of them have restaurants and snack shops, freshwater swimming pools, shops selling the Dead Sea's mineral-rich skincare products, and clean bathrooms and changing areas.

The restaurants at the Dead Sea beach complexes offer a vast lunch buffet, and most visitors opt to buy the good-value beach access plus buffet entrance ticket.

If you only want to stop for a quick dip, though, there's a slightly cheaper beach access ticket that still grants you access to all the other facilities.

Note that these beaches are at their busiest on Fridays and Saturdays (the Jordanian weekend), so if you're looking for a quieter beach experience, try to time your visit for another day.

Alternatively, if you want to base yourself in the Dead Sea region rather than visit on a day trip, there are also several large spa resorts clustered on this stretch of shoreline. Most visitors who choose to stay overnight are here to indulge in some luxurious spa treatments with a distinct Dead Sea quality.

The Dead Sea's mineral-rich mud is well known to have therapeutic properties, and the resorts here all offer room and spa ritual packages for a pampering time-out from traveling.

Sitting on a ridge, looking over the Dead Sea below, this complex with an observation platform and a museum devoted to the Dead Sea is a great stop on your way to or from the Dead Sea shore itself.

The museum here documents the geology of the Dead Sea and this area's importance through human history.

For the best views, stretching across the sea to the dusky-hued hills of Israel and the Palestinian Territories, try to come here early in the morning. Later in the day, the western bank of the Dead Sea is often covered in haze.

The 30-kilometer journey here from Madaba is also one of the most dramatic access roads to the Dead Sea , with the descent winding down through jagged hills, cut through with swaths of wadis (valleys). This is also the access road to the hot springs of Hammamat Ma'in.

Sitting 19 kilometers north of the Dead Sea's northern tip, this archaeological and religious site is one of the most important and meaningful pilgrimage sites for Christian visitors to Jordan .

Most scholars believe that this is the site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. During Pope John Paul II's Holy Land tour in 2000, the site's claim was officially sanctified by him.

Rubbing right up against the border with Israel and the Palestinian Territories, archaeological work to uncover the ruins here only began in the mid-1990s after Jordan's peace deal was signed with Israel, and the area's landmines could be cleared.

The ruins unearthed here reveal a Byzantine-era pilgrimage complex, with the foundations of churches and baptism ponds, affirming that early Christians believed this to be the Bethany where Jesus was baptized .

The earliest foundations of a church discovered here dates back to the 3rd century, making it one of the oldest in the world.

Right beside the Jordan River (which is little more than a narrow stream these days) is the modern Greek Orthodox Church of St. John the Baptist. A platform on the river bank here is used for pilgrims who want to be baptized in the Jordan.

For non-religious visitors, the platform here is where you can snap photos right on the border , as the opposite river bank (a couple of meters away) is Israel.

The thermal springs of Hammamat Ma'in are secreted between barren high hills, within the lush valley of Wadi Zarqa Ma'in.

Here, steaming waterfalls gush down the cliffs into pools where people soak in the hot, mineral-rich water.

There are a variety of gender-separated public pools for bathing . The indoor pools are basic and a bit institutional, so best avoided if you're here to soak up the ambience as well as bathe.

The best option is the outdoor family pool (men-only groups cannot enter), with its little waterfall plunging into the steaming water.

For a luxurious Hammamat Ma'in experience, though, head to the resort. As well as providing one of Jordan's best hideaway-style spa stays, the Ma'in Hot Spring Resort & Spa offers day passes for casual visitors, which give you access to their spa facilities and private, waterfall-fed hot pools.

The remains of Mukawir (Machaerus) lie scattered atop a 700-meter-high summit overlooking the Dead Sea.

Known mostly as the location where Salome danced for Herod Antipas, and where he then had St. John the Baptist beheaded , Mukawir was once a fortified castle built by Herod the Great.

The ruins are actually quite sparse, and mostly foundations only. Most people come here for the astonishing views across the rippling hills, down to the Dead Sea , from the site.

The easiest ruins to decipher while here are the defensive walls and the outline of a bathhouse, while the platform area on-site with re-raised columns is said to be the spot of Salome's dance.

From Mukawir, it is a 17-kilometer drive on the most direct road down to the Dead Sea shore. The site is easily included in a Dead Sea day trip loop.

Feted as the lowest national park in the world and officially known as Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve , Wadi Mujib is a towering canyon area that slices through Jordan's desert mountains, opening out at the Dead Sea.

The main activity area of Wadi Mujib is the Dead Sea area where the towering, rose-toned gorge walls are at their narrowest.

From the entrance here, adventurous travelers can take part in a number of wet-hikes that explore the canyon .

Activities here mostly take place during the summer months when the water is at its lowest (the Wadi is closed to visitors during certain seasons and after heavy rainfall due to dangerous conditions).

When open, hikes here always involve getting soaking wet as you swim-scramble through the inner canyon and, at the end of the main trail, dive over a small waterfall into a pool below. They're great fun for hardy, adrenaline-seekers but not suitable for anyone not confident in water.

The upper reaches of the canyon can be viewed from near the small town of Dhiban along the King's Highway.

Following the Dead Sea Highway south from the entrance to Wadi Mujib, you'll come to the Lot's Wife pillar rock formation .

There are good views of shorefront salt deposits from the parking area here, so it's a popular place to visit for photographs.

To see the archaeology site identified as Sodom and Gomorrah by some biblical scholars, keep driving south and take the main turnoff east, which leads to Kerak Castle.

A few kilometers up this switchback road is the sparse Bab Ad-Dhraa site, once a fortified Bronze Age town and then suddenly abandoned.

Archaeologists who worked on the excavations here date the site's settlement from approximately 3200 BC to 1900 BC.

The southern section of Jordan's Dead Sea is where the potash industry is based. As you drive through, you can see the evaporation pools where potassium chloride, calcium, and bromine are extracted from the Dead Sea water.

There are various places along the shoreline here where you can get good views of the salt deposits.

On the eastern side of the road, the small settlements are surrounded by fertile farmland where tomatoes and bananas are grown.

If you keep driving south along the Dead Sea Highway, right to the southern end of the sea, you'll get to the turnoff to Tafilah, which connects up onto the southern section of the King's Highway, and ends at Petra .

Sitting just off the Dead Sea Highway, 48 kilometers south from Wadi Mujib, is the small archaeological site known as Lot's Cave.

This is where some biblical scholars believe Lot and his daughters lived after God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.

A stepped walkway winds up the hill to the site, with good views of the surrounding countryside along the way.

Before (or after) you climb up to the site, pop in to the Lowest Point on Earth Museum , where artifacts, including mosaic fragments and ceramics, unearthed from the site and from other nearby archaeological sites such as Bab Ad-Dhraa are on display.

Once up the hill at the site itself, the main ruins here, built in front of the cave, are of a much younger Byzantine-era church-monastery complex. According to the inscriptions found here, the church was dedicated to Lot, showing that in the Byzantine era, people believed that this cave was the place where Lot and his family stayed.

There are some well-preserved fragments of mosaic flooring in the church ruins, as well as the remains of a reservoir.

The Dead Sea Highway, once you've passed the southern end of the Dead Sea, is bordered by the desolate desert landscapes of the Wadi Arabah .

Heading this way, about 60 kilometers south from Lot's Cave, you reach the turnoff into Feynan, which can only be accessed by 4WD.

This desert area encompasses the lower elevation of Wadi Dana Biosphere Reserve , which at its top height sits at around 1,700 meters, with Dana Village accessed from the King's Highway, and here, amid the desert, sits below sea level.

Feynan Eco-lodge here arranges a number of activities within the desert area, including hikes to copper mines used in the Iron Age and Roman era, and canyoning. It's also the only place to stay in the area. A night at Feynan is an experience in itself, as the eco-lodge doesn't use electricity.

From Feynan, there is a popular, and incredibly beautiful, one-day hiking trail up the Wadi Dana to Dana Village.

Although Kerak Castle technically isn't in the Dead Sea Region (it sits along the King's Highway, high above the Dead Sea), it is easily included in a Dead Sea loop itinerary, as it's only 52 kilometers southeast of Wadi Mujib.

Kerak is Jordan's most famous crusader-built castle , with dramatically well-preserved fortifications and a warren of barren-vaulted halls and chambers, and dungeon cells to explore.

It was built in the 12th century as part of the crusaders' line of defense, and retains an astounding amount of its original character, though various additions were made to the castle during the Mamluk era.

On a Dead Sea sightseeing drive trip starting from Amman or Madaba, you can easily fit in a visit to Bethany-beyond-the-Jordan, a dip in the Dead Sea, and a tour of Kerak Castle on the same day.

Your Guide to Visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan

Last Updated on August 24, 2023

You can’t skip visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan. It is the lowest place on Earth, and one of the saltiest bodies of water on Earth, which means that yes! You’ll float in the Dead Sea.

Picking favourites is hard, but if I had to, I might pick Jordan as one of my favourite destinations, ever. My partner and I spent nearly two weeks road tripping across this Middle Eastern country, and every single day was tons of fun, and packed with unique experiences. 

While in Jordan we spent time exploring the capital city of Amman, eating in local restaurants, walking through markets, and visiting museums and historical sites.

We spent some time discovering the ancient city of Petra , and we slept overnight in the Wadi Rum desert , learning about Jordan’s Bedouin people. We hung out on the beaches of Aqaba, and spent evenings enjoying shisha and tea. And of course, we visited the Dead Sea. 

Read on for my full guide to visiting (and floating in!) the Dead Sea! As always, keep in mind that this guide is from the perspective of my experience, as a foreign traveler in Jordan.

The Dead Sea is a salt lake bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. It has almost 10 times more salt than ordinary seawater, and this is exactly what it’s famous for. 

Because of the high salt concentration in the Dead Sea, the sea’s water is denser than plain fresh water. And since our body weight is lighter than the density of the salty sea, we’re very buoyant in it. This makes it easy (and fun!) to float in the Dead Sea. 

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Visiting the Dead Sea was a highlight of our Jordan road trip, and we managed to visit the Dead Sea  on a small budget. The key is to go to a public beach rather than a resort to access the sea. Don’t worry, I’ll share the details on how to do this later in this post. 

Visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan is pretty ideal year round. Jordan’s weather tends to be nice year round, with hot summer months, and more temperate winter months . That said, I think the best weather is during spring and fall, where you strike a nice balance – not too hot, but far from cold.

We made our trip to Jordan in the middle of February, which meant that our visit to the Dead Sea was a bit chilly (it was around 20 degrees). That said, it was nice to avoid the summer heat, and we also got to experience Jordan in the off-season, which means way less crowds – I’m a big advocate for reducing overtourism ! 

In the rest of this guide I will cover facts about the Dead Sea, how to get from Amman to the Dead Sea (as well as from Aqaba), tips for swimming in the Dead Sea, staying in the Dead Sea resorts, and how to visit the Dead Sea on your own.

But to start, let’s dive into some facts and info about the Dead Sea in Jordan. I am a huge advocate of responsible travel, and I think that taking the time to learn a bit about our destinations before traveling there is one way that we can travel more responsibly . That’s because by learning about our destinations, we’re adding an educational aspect to our travels.

4 Interesting Facts About the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is one of the only salt lakes in the world that is accessible for swimming, and believe me, the experience of floating in it’s salty water is enough reason to go. But there’s plenty more reasons, too. 

The sea, and it’s surrounding landscape are surreal to see. At 423 meters below sea level – the lowest point on Earth, the region is mostly hot, barren desert. The sea is long, and not very wide, so from the Jordan side, you can see across to the West Bank. 

I’m a big believer in treating travel as an opportunity to learn, so lets kick off the learning with some interesting facts about the Dead Sea: 

It’s a lake! To be considered a “sea” a body of water should connect to an ocean. The Dead Sea does not. It’s source is the Jordan River, making it landlocked. It’s this landlocked nature that causes water to quickly evaporate from the Dead Sea, leaving behind tons of salt.

It’s the Dead Sea’s high concentration of salt that makes it so dense that humans can float on top of it. The Dead Sea has an average salinity of 33.7 percent , which is about 10 times saltier than ordinary seawater.

The Dead Sea earned its name because plants and animals cannot survive in it. That much salt is just too intense! But just because large organisms can’t survive the salt doesn’t mean microbes can’t. Scientists report that tiny communities of bacteria have been found at the bottom of this supposedly lifeless lake.

Unfortunately, the Dead Sea is shrinking – and it’s shrinking fast. While experts say that it won’t dry up completely, right now, it’s surface level is dropping more than a metre (3ft) every year. And it’s largely because of human practises that are unsustainable .

Since the 1960s, some of the natural water sources that surround the Dead Sea have been diverted elsewhere, and so the sea hasn’t been able to replenish itself. Now, scientists are working hard to try to slow the sea’s shrinking, so that we can continue to enjoy it. 

Yes! The Dead Sea in Jordan isn’t actually the saltiest sea on earth, it just happens to be very accessible, and safe to swim in. Because visiting the Dead Sea is easily done, it’s earned its reputation as the most popular salt sea for weightless swimming. 

The saltiest body of water on earth is the Don Juan Pond in Antarctica. And yes, it really is a pond – it’s only 4 inches deep. The pond’s water has a salinity content of almost 40%. This puts the Dead Sea to shame, and makes this pond a fascinating research subject for scientists. 

Another salty sea is the Gaet’ale Pond , which is near Dallol, Ethiopia. There’s a couple reasons the salt pools found there haven’t become as popular with tourists. The region doesn’t have a lot of infrastructure, especially for tourism, and, it’s one of the hottest inhabited places on earth. Moreover, although some travelers have allegedly swum in the region’s salt ponds, many of them are dangerous because of toxic gasses. Lake Retba, also known as Lac Rose, is in Senegal, about an hour from the capital Dakar. This lake is super salty, but it’s also known for its distinct pink colour, which is caused by a bacteria that is attracted to the salt. The bacteria produces a red pigment that absorbs sunlight, and makes the lake appear pink. Travelers can float in Lake Retba as well as go for a boat ride on it! 

Should You go to a Dead Sea Resort or Public Beach?

When planning your visit to the Dead Sea, the first thing you’ll want to decide is whether you’d like to go to a Dead Sea resort, or a public beach. There are pros and cons to both choices, so let’s break them down. 

The north-eastern edge of the Dead Sea in Jordan is home to several resorts that cater to visitors who want to both relax and enjoy the salty sea. Every resort has its own stretch of private, well-maintained beach for easy access to the Dead Sea. 

For your Dead Sea dip, a resort will offer lounging space and chairs on the beach, freshwater showers, and Dead Sea mud for sale. Aside from these perks, the resorts have many other amenities as well, like fresh water pools, spa services, and restaurants. 

The prices for the Dead Sea resorts range between 60.00 USD and 300.00 USD (or more) per night. 

It is also possible to buy a day pass to use the resort’s beach and amenities for accessing the Dead Sea. Day passes range in price as well, starting at about $60.00 USD and going up to around $100.00 USD.

• Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea : If you’ve got a larger budget (or just want to treat yourself!), this is one of the nicest resorts in the area. This hotel has top-of-the-line amenities and luxurious Dead Sea access.
• Movenpick Resort and Spa: This one is in a mid-range budget. Based on reviews, this hotel is sparkling clean and has all the amenities you could possibly need, including a spa and gardens.
• Ramada Resort: This is the most affordable resort in the area, but it still offers private access to the Dead Sea. It’s offerings are more basic, but you still have the staples: a pool, and buffet eating. 

Visiting a public beach is what the locals do! The beaches are a little south of the resorts, and they are easily accessible off of the Dead Sea Highway. Public beaches are a super economical way to enjoy the Dead Sea in Jordan.

The most common public beach to visit is called Amman Touristic Beach, which is about 2 kilometers south of the Dead Sea resorts. This is the beach that the JETT coach busses drop tourists off at. Amman Touristic beach offers freshwater pools, Dead Sea mud, dressing rooms, and freshwater showers. 

There are more beaches that offer swimming access as you drive south along the Dead Sea Highway. They aren’t all “official” beaches in the way that Amman Touristic beach is, but they’re perfectly fine to use nevertheless. We opted to pull over at one of these unmarked beaches for our swim, and we were glad we made that choice because we had the shoreline entirely to ourselves!

It costs 30 USD to enter the Amman Touristic Beach – it is well worth the fee for access to the amenities that this beach offers. The other public beaches range from free to having small fees. 

The one we visited offered free access to the Dead Sea, but we paid a few dollars to take a freshwater shower afterwards. We also opted to hang out under an umbrella after our swim, where we enjoyed some hookah, a snack, and the incredible views. 

How to Get From Amman to the Dead Sea 

You can get from Amman to the Dead Sea by public transport, car, or tour. The trip is about one hour, so visiting the Dead Sea from Amman can work as a day trip. 

Your first (and most affordable) option to get to the Dead Sea in Jordan is to take a public bus. From Amman, catch a minibus from Mujaharin bus station to Rame and then from there you can grab an onward taxi to the beach.

The bus journey costs around 1JD (1.50USD) and the taxi ride is usually around 4JD (6USD), depending on what beach you go to.

JETT tourist buses are also an option. They are air-conditioned and comfortable but they don’t run daily and they only stop at Amman Beach.

The JETT busses leave in the morning from the 7th Circle bus station – but check their website ahead of time to verify departure station and times. You’ll also want to check the timing for catching the bus back to Amman from the beach. 

If you’ve got a car, the drive from Amman to the Dead Sea is simple. You’ll head southwest out of Amman until you reach Route 65, also known as the Dead Sea Highway, or the King’s Highway. This ride takes roughly an hour, but can vary depending on which beach or resort you decide to go to. 

* Some clarification because this can be confusing: The Dead Sea Highway, King’s Highway, and Route 65 are different names for the same highway. 

If you don’t want to drive yourself, it’s also possible to hire a private driver to take you to the Dead Sea and back. This is the most expensive option, but if you prefer not to drive yourself and want the most comfortable trip, it’s your best option. 

Take a Tour to the Dead Sea from Amman

Taking a tour from the Dead Sea to Amman is a worry-free way to go floating in the saltiest sea! There are a few options for half and full day tours to take you to the Dead Sea in Jordan. I’ve highlighted below two high rated, well-reviewed tour options for visiting the Dead Sea from Amman.

Private Half Day Tour to the Dead Sea from Amman

• RATING: 4.8 out of 5 stars | TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours

On this half day private tour from Amman , you’re picked up at your hotel, and driven in an air-conditioned vehicle to the Dead Sea. Your private guide will bring you to a water’s edge private beach where you’re free to go floating in the Dead Sea, lounge on the beach, and take in the beautiful landscapes around you.

You’re also able to upgrade this tour to include entry into a resort hotel that has a wider range of facilities, including swimming pools, spas, and Dead Sea mud treatments.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private transfer by air-conditioned vehicle
• Driver guide
• Entrance Fees to the Dead Sea Private Beach Area (if option selected)
• Entrance Fees to the Dead Sea Spa Hotel (if option selected)
• Entrance Fees to the Holiday Inn Hotel (if option selected)
• Onboard WiFi

BOOK: Private Half Day Tour to the Dead Sea from Amma n

From Amman: Dead Sea and Madaba Tour with Hotel Pickup

• RATING: 4.8 out of 5 stars | TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours

On this Dead Sea and Madaba Tour with Hotel Pickup , you’ll get to combine visiting two amazing sites in Jordan, into one day! This is a longer tour, but that’s because it includes two stops. After being picked up at your hotel, you’ll go to the ancient city of Madaba. Madaba is one of the oldest towns in the Middle East, and home to a number of churches. You guide will bring you to several of these old churches, and you’ll get to see extraordinary mosaics from the 7th and 8th centuries.

Then, your tour will continue with a quick stop at the Jordan River Baptism Site, and then to the Dead Sea. You’ll go to the Dead Sea Beach for an hour to relax and enjoy lunch, before heading back to Amman.

• English-speaking driver
• Transportation by modern vehicle with air conditioning

* Note that this tour does not include entrance fees to any of the sites visited.

BOOK: From Amman: Dead Sea and Madaba Tour with Hotel Pickup

Aqaba to the Dead Sea isn’t an easy transfer unless you’ve got a car. To make the trip by coach bus, you first need to go from Aqaba to Amman, and then transfer from Amman to the Dead Sea by bus, coach, or private drive. 

It’s also quite easy to rent a car in Aqaba and drive to the Dead Sea for the day. It takes just over 3 hours driving north along the Dead Sea Highway to reach the Dead Sea resorts and public beaches. 

Overall, Aqaba isn’t quite as well connected to the Dead Sea as Amman, so I definitely recommend fitting in your trip to the Dead Sea during your stay in Amman. 

Responsible Travel Tips for Visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan

My top tip for visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan? Have fun! Floating in it is a unique, once in a lifetime experience, so make the most of it. I found it super entertaining to experiment with floating.

Try putting your arms and legs down (it’s hard, they bounce back up!), and try floating both on your back and on your stomach. The weightless feeling is the closest you’ll get to feeling like you’re floating in space.

Aside from having fun, here are some practical tips for visiting the Dead Sea: 

Don’t stay in the Dead Sea longer than 10-15 minutes. The salt water irritates your skin, and after 15 minutes it can start to sting. Remember that the Dead Sea is about 10 times saltier than typical oceans and seas.

On that note – Don’t splash! Getting that salt water in your eyes will hurt a lot, and if you get it in your mouth, you’ll for sure gag . 

If you have any cuts or wounds, dab vaseline on them before going into the Dead Sea. The salt water will sting them (believe me, it hurts!), but vaseline is an easy and safe barrier.

You’ll also want to avoid shaving anywhere on your body a couple days before swimming in the Dead Sea. If you shave the day of, or even the day prior, your skin will sting from the salt. 

Take a fresh water shower immediately after swimming in the Dead Sea, and make sure you thoroughly rinse all of the salt off. It can become uncomfortable if you don’t get all the salt rinsed quickly. Rinse your swimsuit and shoes as well!

Water shoes or flip flops are a good thing to bring because the salt rocks can be quite sharp. I definitely cut my feet at the public beach. 

Wear sunscreen! The Jordanian sun is super strong, and believe me, even if you don’t feel like you’re burning – you probably are. To avoid the most intense sun and heat, go for your swim in the morning or in the evening. 

Be careful with your phone or camera near the water, and make sure your hands are completely dry before touching any of your electronics. The salty water is toxic to electronics.

And finally – be respectful of the sea, and the surrounding region. When traveling, always remember you’re a visitor, and show respect to both the local culture and local land.

So in this case, you’ll want to make sure you leave behind no garbage on your visit to the Dead Sea, and likewise don’t take anything (you know the saying, leaving nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures). This is one simple way that you can be a responsible tourist and also reduce the impacts of overtourism .

My partner and I have driven ourselves while traveling South East Asia, Europe, United Arab Emirates and India. Because of this, we felt confident in our ability to handle driving in Jordan, and we were comfortable with adjusting to a different driving style in Jordan.

We’re glad we decided to road trip Jordan, because driving in Jordan allowed us to adjust our itinerary as we traveled, and we were able to make random stops along the way.

We love stopping in random towns to experience places and people that we otherwise would have missed. It was especially fun to drive Highway 65 in Jordan.

Also known as the Dead Sea Highway, it stretches alongside the entire length of the sea, from the south to the north. The entire drive is scenic, with many spots where you can pull off the highway to soak up the views. 

For the Dead Sea Highway alone, it was very worth it to drive ourselves while traveling Jordan. If you aren’t comfortable driving yourself, you can always hire a driver in Jordan to take you on Highway 65.

Tips for Driving in Jordan

Rental cars in Jordan aren’t always well maintained. Be sure to research reviews of the rental company that you hire through to avoid mishaps. We hired through Eras, and they provided a good car with reliable support. They called us regularly throughout our trip to check in.

Do not speed while you’re driving in Jordan. The roads are good, but stray animals and often people will venture out onto the road, even in the middle of the desert. Because of this you want to always make sure you have enough break time – just in case a goat appears on the highway.

Rental companies can shut off your engine. We made the mistake of surpassing the 120 km per hour limit, and to teach us a lesson our rental company shut our engine off! A quick phone call and apology got us our driving privileges back, but you can avoid this altogether by never driving over the speed limit.

Avoid night driving in Jordan, for the same reasons listed above. Street lights might not be reliable all over the country, so it’s safer to drive in daylight. 

Jordanian drivers do things differently. In Jordan’s cities, there are no designated lanes and lots of roundabouts. Some drivers don’t use their turning signals, and expect to hear horns honking all the time.

Be careful of accidents while exploring Jordan. It is important to know that if you are involved in an accident with a pedestrian, the driver is always considered in the wrong. This can result in hefty fines and in extreme cases, imprisonment.

Make sure you have insurance bought from your home country if you decide to drive in Jordan. While this sounds scary, most tourists do not find themselves driving in busy cities, so the risk of such an accident is relatively low.

Invest in a SIM card with calling and data so that you’re always able to contact your car rental company for assistance. SIM cards can be bought at the airport when you exit. I went with Orange. The SIM cost 15 JOD and included calling with 4 gigabytes of data.

I also recommend downloading an offline map application like Maps.Me. Using offline maps ensures that if you run out of data, or want to minimize your data use while driving in Jordan, you can still use maps for navigation.

You can also buy an esim for Jordan, just note that esims don’t usually support phone calls. Esims are digital sim cards that are installed on your phone using a QR code. Esims provide you internet data. I find esims super convenient because they can be set up before you leave for a trip. This means the second you land in a new country, you can be online. Get US$3 off your first eSIM data pack from Airalo. Use code ERIN0985 when you sign up or apply it at checkout. You can get your esim right here .

Lastly, navigating Jordan was straight forward. We had zero issues with directions thanks to using our map apps. Parking was always accessible and was usually free. We also found Jordanians to be very receptive and helpful whenever we asked for help or directions.

There is truly no other experience like floating in Jordan’s Dead Sea. Before our trip, I’d read a lot about the Dead Sea, fully imagining what the experience of floating in it would be like – and let me tell you, my imagination was completely off! I didn’t expect to be nearly as buoyant as I was in the sea. 

With the Dead Sea now shrinking, there’s no better time than now to visit Jordan and go for a Dead Sea float. The beautiful thing is that, by supporting tourism in the region, you’ll also help support efforts to slow the Dead Sea disappearing. 

Planning a trip to Jordan? Read my other Jordan guides:

• Your Ultimate Jordan Road Trip Itinerary

22 Must-Know Tips for Visiting Petra, Jordan

• Your Essential Guide to Driving in Jordan

8 Essential Tips for Visiting Wadi Rum, Jordan

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Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism , where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here .

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Your ultimate jordan road trip guide, 10 essential tips for driving in jordan (2024), 12 thoughts on “your guide to visiting the dead sea in jordan”.

Wow this is awesome! Super comprehensive. My mom visited the Dead Sea years ago, and she’s never stopped talking about it! I would love to see Petra and the Dead Sea soon. I was also surprised how affordable Dead Sea resorts are? Sign me up!

Floating in the dead sea was never on my bucket list, but these pictures are beautiful and I may just have to add it 😄 thanks for this detailed guide and great tips!

If the dead see is shrinking, it means that its salt concentration is actually increasing? It will soon reach saturation if it’s the case.

The biggest takeaway for me: nothing can survive in the dead sea so I don’t need to worry about what’s swimming around me. My biggest fear in water. So I definitely want to go now. It looks really nice. I’d actually heard that there are areas than can be quite polluted with garbage because of the popularity, but it doesn’t look like it in your pics. Great tips for driving in Jordan too

This is a very informative post. It has been on my list forever.

How interesting. It looks like such a fantastic experience to float in the water. Great for the skin too.

Thanks for providing such a thorough guide! My mom visited the Dead Sea years ago and she raves about it. I’ve wanted to go ever since!

This is amazing! Would love to visit Jordan!

The Dead Sea is literally the most mystifying place on Earth! I visited back in December. Wish I would have seen your post before then!

Dead sea has been in my list for long,it’s such a unique place on earth.lovy pictures

My family went to Jordan last year, but I’ve never gotten to visit yet! I’d love to get to go someday–your photos are beautiful!! That’s awesome that there’s still some life that can be supported in the Dead Sea!

HI, i am planning a trip to dead sea in Jordan and your article was really helpful to me. Can you share where that public beach with showers is and how to get there?

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A Little Adventure… An Epically Muddy Day at the Dead Sea

Last updated on January 21, 2024 by Shannon

After arriving at the Dead Sea in Jordan , I wasn’t prepared for the sheer starkness of the landscape. My previously conjured images of the Dead Sea were of two varieties:

• An exotic, remote, and barren desert landscape with an inhospitable lake of water stretching for miles.
• A smiling and slightly accented vendor in any one of America’s super-sized malls rubbing dark brown Dead Sea mud onto the back of my hand, extolling its many virtues.

Neither version prepared me for the actuality of the Dead Sea—the region’s bare landscape was the very element lending beauty. And remote? Not hardly. It’s a mere 45 minute drive from Amman , Jordan’s capital, and surrounded by a handful of significant religious biblical and Islamic pilgrimage sites . We easily added an overnight here between our exploring the myths and history of Petra and a sunrise camel ride in Wadi Rum .

If you’re as clueless as I was going into this region, let’s see what a traveler can get up to with a day or two to spare on Jordan’s side of the Dead Sea! (warning: classically cheesy Dead Sea shots ahead ;)

Table of Contents

Why is the Dead Sea So Important?

The Dead Sea is a salt lake located in the Jordan Rift Valley and is bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and Palestine to the west. It’s a popular tourist spot because of its unique ecosystem and the many health benefits that are believed to be associated with its high salt and mineral content. The Dead Sea is also an important source of natural minerals and is home to a number of industries that rely on its resources.

Pick out accommodation on Booking.com.

This is the only booking platform I use because it rewards you for loyalty, and I regularly score free breakfasts and 15% off my hotel.

Things to Do Near the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is well positioned in Jordan to see a number of incredible sites of religious and historic significance. The Dead Sea forms part of the border with Israel, and this area is one of the key Cradles of Civilization on the planet, giving birth to an enormous amount of the human races’ shared history. In addition to actually floating and frolicking in the Dead Sea, you can visit most of the nearby sites in a single day if you have your own car, or spread it among two days if you’re using public transport.

Dead Sea Mud and Salty, Mineral-y Goodness!

The Dead Sea is known for its mud . . .  which seems like a strange claim to fame until you consider just what actually makes Dead Sea mud different from what you can dig up in your backyard.

Your random bit of history for the day: The Dead Sea is the lowest spot on earth’s surface—the shores of the Dead Sea sit 1,388 feet (423 meters) below sea level.

This level makes it possible for a number of other Dead Sea wonders—the sea’s waters maintain nearly 34% salinity and the River Jordan dead-ends into Dead Sea, with river water evaporating and leaving behind vast beds of salt and minerals.

Then consider the UVB rays;  the barometric pressure and high oxygen levels on the sea’s shores dilute the sun’s harmful rays more than any other place on earth . . . for the fair-skinned (me!), that means we don’t burn as quickly when sunning on the shores of the Dead Sea!

Now put all of that information into a blender and this is what you get:

Travelers come from all over the world to slather themselves in the thick, clay-like Dead Sea mud, bake the mud into their skin in the warm sunlight, and then soak it off in the mineral-rich salt waters.

I couldn’t really opt out of this experience, right?!

After reading up on the Dead Sea I gave myself a challenge—try to sink, try to force my body below the surface of the water.

I couldn’t!

The high salt content means I was forced to instead content myself with a gentle bob on the water’s surface while the setting sun lowered behind the mountains near Israel, turning the glossy surface of the water into a near perfect mirror of the sky’s riot of saffron and rose-tinted clouds.

Bethany Beyond the Jordan

The sun was still rising high in the sky the morning we ventured a short 15 minute ride from the Dead Sea to Bethany Beyond the Jordan , the site where John the Baptist baptized Christ.

This site is a fairly recent archeological discovery and is still in excavation—archeologists are actively digging up more historical ruins nearby.

One of the neatest parts of the experience is standing on the banks of the Jordan River and peering at the pilgrims standing just across the river in Israel, a mere four or five arm lengths away.

Jordan and Israel share this pilgrimage site and we were close enough to sit in the Jordanian shade and watch pilgrims in Israel bless themselves with the river’s water.

Madaba, Mount Nebo

From Bethany Beyond the Jordan, it’s a fairly short drive to Madaba and the top of Mount Nebo—another religious site and also a spot providing panoramic views of the Holy Land.

From the lookout spot, a map offers pinpoints of major historic sites in the surrounding region: the Dead Sea, Israel, Jericho, and Jerusalem (on a clear day).

Several of the world’s major religions played out their beginnings on the land visible from Mount Nebo, both biblical-based religions and Islam trace roots to this area. This is a highly recommended thing to do when you’re near the Dead Sea.

I geeked out on spending my morning hours learning the history and biblical stories that make this region globally significant. I’m not a religious pilgrim by any means, but history is fascinating and I believe all knowledge is worth having!

Travel Planning: Visiting Jordan’s Dead Sea

Where to Stay

Although many day trip to the region (it costs about $100 for an organized tour ), the Dead Sea is worthy of a night or two to really soak it all in. There are many gorgeous five-star high-end resorts and spas in the area perfect for a weekend of relaxation ( the Mövenpick is a gorgeous option  and they comped my stay to try it out. It was plush, offering private beaches and many amenities to enjoy the sea).

Budget travelers, however, fear not! Local resorts offer day passes to use the amenities, or, about two kilometers from the resort area is the Amman Touristic Beach—it’s decked out with pools, Dead Sea mud, and dressing rooms. The religious sites mentioned are all within a 20 minute drive of the Dead Sea, so you can stay anywhere nearby and still access the beauty and history.

Top hotels for your budget:

• Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea : For those on a cushy budget, this is one of the nicest resorts in the area and has top-notch amenities and gorgeous access to the Dead Sea. I also think that Kempinski hotels have some of the tastiest breakfast buffets in the world!
• Mövenpick Resort and Spa : This is where I stayed and works on a mid-range budget. Everything was sparkling clean and so lovely and this is a good option for those looking for a day-pass, too.
• Ramada Resort : This is the most affordable of the resorts in the area that still offers private access to the Dead Sea, and it’s definitely lovely and worth visiting for those who need a bit of a more budget place, but still want nice amenities.

If you have your own rental car, consider staying at a vacation rental— VRBO has some truly beautiful ones right on the water.

Book a city transfers to maximize your time.

Get Your Guide has a range of tours in Jordan, but the car and shuttle transfer services are perhaps the most handy for travelers who haven’t rented a car.

How to Get to the Dead Sea from Amman

Located a roughly 45 minute drive from Amman, the Dead Sea is certainly day-tripable from Amman. And since Jordan is small, you should consider renting a car to better explore! I reliably find the best deals at RentalCars.com when I am outside of the U.S.

The easiest way to get to the Dead Sea is via a private transfer that runs just $50 to or from Amman (it’s $160 to/from Aqaba ).

You can also opt for a taxi that will cost between 20-35 JD (booking through your hotel will cost on the upper end, the lower end is if you find and negotiate one yourself), or a JETT tourist service bus leaves from 7 th Circle bus station directly to the beach (~7 JD).

The public bus leaving from Mujahidin will only save you a couple JD all told because you will have to cab from where it drops you to the beach, so it’s best to take the tourist one.

Otherwise there are organized day trips you can join for right about $100 —these include transfers on both sides and make it super easy to get to Amman and back in one day.

Best Time to Visit the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is ideal really most of the year, though Jordan’s best weather in general (and tourist high season) is during late fall and late spring. Weekends are quite hectic in the public areas especially!

And given the low sun’s rays are filtered by the time they reach you on the shoreline, you can even go out in full midday sun and splash around a bit (though, of course, still use sunscreen!).

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

How to Find the Salt and Mineral Formations Along Jordan’s Dead Sea

The main resorts and public beaches do not have the iconic views of the salty shoreline—rather, you’ll need a car to find the best spots.

Note that the Dead Sea shore is receding rapidly, so the best spots to view the salt rocks and salt-crystal buildup can change year-to-year, but the general area of shoreline offering these views is roughly the same. It lies south of the resort beaches, toward and near Wadi al-Mujib National Park.

A Little Adrift readers have done some heavy legwork and found great spots that have the best views of Dead Sea salt right now.

• For views of the white, chunky salt rock crystal formations, Instagrammer ShesGotWings777 sent me a pin drop and noted that you can access a gorgeous area near these Google Map coordinates (31°26’55.4″N 35°33’56.7″E) . Her photos are much like mine, with the thick rocks covered in salt formations.
• Another reader, Maria, visited and found a place nearby with beautiful variegated shoreline and put together a great guide to the Dead Sea with advice on finding shores with salt and mineral deposits .

In many cases, the area will not look like it has the great views from the main road, but you can park the car and find a trail leading to the shoreline, which is where you’ll find the pretty panoramas.

These recommendations may include scrambling down and over rocks—conduct your own research and use good judgement; A Little Adrift does not accept any responsibility for any potential consequences arising from the use of this information.

Visiting the Public Beaches on Jordan’s Dead Sea

It costs ~20 JD to enter the Amman Public Beach , or consider a day pass to one of the nearby resorts—you’ll pay double to triple the cost range depending on if it’s a weekday or weekend, but it can be much less hectic.

The Public Beach is really a public resort though, so it’s nice and you shouldn’t hesitate to visit it. There are other less well-maintained beaches walkable from the Public Beach if you are really on a shoestring budget.

If you’re buying a day pass to a resort beach as a way to bypass the Public Beach, I recommend Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea and Mövenpick Resort and Spa.

Cost Breakdown of Things to Do

Costs for visiting the most common things to do include: Mount Nebo (1 JD) and Bethany Beyond the Jordan (12 JD). If you’ve rented a car, then you can visit the salty shorelines for free!

Getting Around Jordan

Jordan on the whole is fairly easy to navigate by public transport, although many travelers rent a private car and explore that way since there are a few key sights you really need a car or a day tour to visit.

Use the Lonely Planet Jordan to find the most updated transport options around the country as it’s your best bet at understanding how to navigate between places, as well as knowing which neat smaller sights you can visit along the way if you’re road tripping.

I explored a huge swath of the country, including wandering markets in Amman , learning from Bedouin in Wadi Rum , sipping tea with locals , and taking epic jumping shots at every major historic site . :)

Safety Tips

Jordan has significantly different vibes than other places in the region and you can absolutely travel here safely. At the Dead Sea, the main safety concern is that you leave the public beaches by dark. This is good advice for most anywhere in the world, but particularly true here if you’re not at a resort beach.

And remember to respect local customs and laws. Jordan is a Muslim country, so it is important to respect local customs and laws, particularly regarding dress and behavior. Yes, you can wear a bathing suit in the water, but dress appropriately once you leave the waterside.

I worked with the  Jordan Tourism Board  on this trip—the experiences, photos, and stories are my own. :)

32 thoughts on “A Little Adventure… An Epically Muddy Day at the Dead Sea”

Dear Shannon,

I hope this comment finds you well. I wanted to reach out and personally thank you for the incredible content you shared on your blog about the Dead Sea in Jordan. My partner and I recently had the opportunity to visit this remarkable destination, and your blog played a significant role in enhancing our experience.

Before embarking on our trip, we diligently researched the Dead Sea, and your blog stood out as a valuable resource. The information you provided was not only insightful but also beautifully presented. We particularly appreciated the attention to detail and the passion with which you described the unique aspects of the region.

One aspect that captured our attention was your mention of the evaporation ponds. Intrigued by this phenomenon, we set out on an adventure to explore these ponds ourselves. Armed with the knowledge we gained from your blog, we spent half a day eagerly driving up and down, searching for the best location to witness the captivating sight of the evaporation process up close.

Thanks to your guidance, we eventually found the perfect spot that allowed us to marvel at the mesmerizing beauty of the evaporation ponds. The experience was nothing short of breathtaking, and we felt a profound connection to the natural wonders that the Dead Sea has to offer.

Hiya .. we’re heading to Jordan in late April starting with Jerash then walking from Wadi Rum to Petra. Which is better for 3 days at the end … Aqaba or the one of the Dead Sea resorts!? Many thanks

I think a Dead Sea resort is going to be more relaxing, if that’s what you’re after. You’d have quiet private beaches and a couple of nice day trips nearby. Aqaba is a city—a busy one. If you’re keen to snorkel or do water adventures on the Red Sea, then you have to go there, but I found it way less relaxing than a Dead Sea resort, and the city lacked charm (but the Red Sea is great, of course ).

Hi Shannon I’m thinking of visiting Dead Sea on end of December 2022. I will be travelling with my 16 years old son. Will it be safe? For safety reasons will it be safe to stay in Amaan or Dead Sea. Thank you shipa

Hi Shipa—Jordan is so much safer than other countries in the area, in general. The Dead Sea is very resort based, so I would recommend staying at one of those for a full experience—one night is probably enough. And while Amman is generally safe, it’s a big city so there are going to be parts that are more sketchy than others. I’m usually a fan of smaller cities for that very reason. Either way, either as a day trip from Amman or overnight, you and your son should feel pretty safe about the experience.

Hi Shannon! Your post is being very iseful for my partner and me to plan our next trip to JOrdan in 3 weeks :) I would like to ask you how we proceed with the “Mud Baths”. We’re going to hire a car at the Amman aiport when we land, and we’ll tour along Jordan with it. Could we stop freely in whatver beach off the Dead Sea Coast, or all beaches are private meaning that we have to book our hotel night at one of those hotels that offer the service? We’ve just booked one night at the Ma´in Hot Springs but if we have to pay other hotel to be able to do the mud baths, we’ll change the reservations. Thank you very much for your help!

Thank you for this article. Very helpful!

Hey Shannon! We recently visited the Dead Sea in Jordan and I have to say we read your blog before visiting. We spent half a day driving up and down to find the best location for getting up and close to the evaporation ponds and I just wanted to mention for anyone else visiting that we have listed where we think that is! (link in blog post above)

Would it be fairly safe for a single woman (mid 60’s) to travel to the Dead Sea and Petra on my own

I think you can absolutely do that trip safely. You may not want to be completely independent for all of it—you can perhaps hire a transport company or driver for the trip from Amman to the Dead Sea, and the resorts and places along the shore felt quite safe on every level.

Congrats! The post and the shots are amazing! Did you remember the location where you took that photo standing up on the salt structures? Thanks :)

Hmm, I don’t know for sure. We left the resort area and had the Dead Sea on our right, and it was about 25 minutes along the way. Sorry, wish that I could be more helpful!

 Truly beautiful sunset image. The very first image is really beautiful as well. The salt structures are just amazing.

We actually had to really look around hard to find a spot where we could climb down to see the salt structures, and when we got down there it was amazing to see them up close! :-)

 The photos of the salt crystals look amazing. I always find it amusing trying to sink in a highly salted water. I used to do it in Greece as well. No where near as saline as the dead sea though. 

Did you manage to sink at least a bit in Greece then?! It was futile feat in Jordan…the salt crystals were one of the neatest parts…I have some closeups of them I may post later, but I thought I was just a dork for liking them so much! ;-)

I’m in love the picture with you with mud on your face! Super cute! 

Thanks Erica! One of my favs from the trip too :)

You too even look cute covered in mud! So happy that we got to meet you two at the Dead Sea the day you left Jordan and the day we arrived. We were very happy that we started our 10 day tour of Jordan and ended it at the Movenpick at the Dead Sea. .We even added Dead Sea mud to our very limited RTW carry on luggage when we headed to Europe for the summer when we left. LOL

Thanks Jeanne! Our breakfast was oh-too-brief but we were grateful our paths crossed! :) Bookending your Jordan trip with the Dead Sea sounds like an amazing part of the trip – it’s so relaxing and I can *completely* understand packing the mud…secret confession, Jodi and I both have some as well! :) Enjoy Europe this summer!

Looks like you and Jodi had your share of fun! I’m usually not one for chilling at a spa for days, but the Dead Sea was one area where I could definitely see myself doing that. The combination of the extra oxygen below sea level and the lovely feeling after the mud and sea really is quite wonderful – felt a bit like superwoman :) 

We had a blast! I agree about the spa days, but somehow coating myself in mud and floating on the Dead Sea was oddly pleasing :) And please tell me you have a shot doing the superwoman pose coated in mud?!

 Looks like such a great day! Awesome photos–the Dead Sea is even higher on my must-see list now! 

 It’s really a lot of fun – and relaxing too. The area is decked out with spas and opportunities to really pamper yourself if you can splurge when you go :)

 This is so high up on my list of places to experience already, and you may have just bumped it higher.

 It deserves to be pretty high up there! Just wait until you see Petra and Wadi Rum….it was so spectacular it hurts to even think about it. :)

 Ah! I’m headed to Jordan in late October and your experience obviously makes me that much more pumped to also try to sink! I suppose I’ll be perfectly content floating along in the Dead Sea though…

 It’s definitely not a hardship to have to sit on top of the water – I really recommend spending sunset on the water – it was stunning! Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help plan your travels! :)

I love the picture with the salt and mineral deposits. I didn’t realize that happened. I think I would skip the mud though. I’ve always HATED being dirty, even as a small child.

 Thanks for stopping in Robert! There are huge beds of the salt deposits – really wherever the uber salty water hits rocks instead of sand…by far one of the prettiest features of the Dead Sea is where the white salt rocks meet the turquoise water!

 You know I have never seen a picture of the dead sea coast with the salt formations like that. And ohh what fun the mud looks like as well :) 

The mud was good fun! You should add this to your bucket list James, when are you heading to the Middle East again?   ;-) 

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Home » Articles & Tips » Travel Tips » When is The Best Time to Visit the Dead Sea?

When is The Best Time to Visit the Dead Sea?

In Israel, at the center of the Jordan Rift Valley, just over 400 meters (430 to be exact) below sea level, lies the lowest point in the world: the Dead Sea . The unique geography of the Dead Sea attracts millions of tourists each year from all over the world. It is surrounded by  breathtaking mountain ranges, including the Jerusalem and Hebron hills, and important historic  sites, such as Masada , Ein Gedi , and Qumran . Moreover, the special properties of the salt-rich  waters of the Dead Sea, also brimming with vitamins and minerals, draws to the region those  searching for a cure for various skin problems, such as psoriasis and many others.

Introducing the unique climate of the Dead Sea

The planning stage of any Dead Sea trip is critical. This is due to the unique climatic conditions  of the Dead Sea, which are very different from those of the surrounding areas in Israel, the  home state of the salty sea. However, this diversity means that each and every person can find  the right season to visit the Dead Sea, because it truly offers a bit of everything: beautiful  waters, safe sunbathing, the famous floating experience , luxury hotels , massage, and spa treatments, mud wraps, fine dining, and loads of hiking trails in the immediate area. For those  who plan to take a dip (which is mandatory! and not just because of the healing and healthy  properties of the sea), the water temperature ranges between 22-35 degrees Celsius, which  means that the sea is pleasant and inviting in all seasons. And no less important, one of the  main advantages of relaxing on the Dead Sea shores is the reduced exposure to sun radiation  compared to other beaches in the region. This is due to the relatively low sea level, which  means that the UV rays are filtered and weakened before reaching your skin.

So when is the best time to visit the Dead Sea?

Average temperatures at the Dead Sea vary greatly depending on humidity levels, winds, and precipitation, which is relatively rare in the region. Generally speaking, Dead Sea weather for  most of the year allows for a comfortable and pleasant stay in the area.

The Dead Sea in Winter (December – February):

Some say that winter is the best time to visit the Dead Sea. After all, it is the new year vacation  period for most of the world, so many people are searching for a suitable holiday destination.  The advantage of a vacation at the Dead Sea at this time is quite clear – while the northern  hemisphere is full of snow, and temperatures in many places fall below zero, the average  temperature at the Dead Sea is remarkably comfortable.

• Dead Sea weather December: 24-13 degrees Celsius
• Dead Sea weather January: 22-11 degrees Celsius
• Dead Sea weather February: 24-13 degrees Celsius

There is little rainfall during winter – just two days a month on average. The water temperature is  higher than the air temperature, which makes swimming a very pleasant experience, together  with various spa treatments for body and soul.

The Dead Sea in Spring (March-May):

This is the busiest period at the Dead Sea, and for good reason – warm temperatures (but not  too hot), with negligible chance of rain – so make sure to take this into account before purchasing a plane ticket. The tourist sites, such as Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, are green and  blooming, the Masada climb is relatively easy (due to pleasant weather conditions), and the  restaurants are bustling and full of life.

• Weather Dead Sea March-May: 35-16 degrees Celsius

The Dead Sea in Summer (June – August):

These are the warmest months in the Dead Sea area. June, which is considered relatively  “comfortable”, has slightly lower average temperatures than the hottest months of July and August. During summer, the water temperature is lower than the ground temperature, so it is cool and pleasant in the sea. Humidity is low and the sun’s radiation levels are less harmful compared to other summer destinations in Israel and around the world. With the right sun cream, you can sunbathe safely at the Dead Sea. By the way, due to the extreme heat, especially in August, hotel prices drop significantly, and those who are counting on enjoying  pampering massages and beach entertainment can find great deals at certain times. However,  for those who suffer in the heat, and of course, those who want to hike the local trails, it is better  to visit the Dead Sea area in other, cooler times of the year.

• Dead Sea weather June: 39-26 degrees Celsius
• Dead Sea weather July-August: 41-29 degrees Celsius

The Dead Sea in Fall (September-November):

This is the most interesting time of year for Dead Sea vacations. During part of the season, the  Jewish high holidays (Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot) are a national holiday in Israel, so the hotels are full and prices soar. The area is bursting with exciting activities, such as the  impressive Tamar music festival at the Dead Sea and Masada. From mid-October to the end of November, temperatures fall and so do the prices. What’s more, during these months you can enjoy lovely desert walks and watch the migrating birds in the nearby Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.

• Dead Sea weather September: 38-23 degrees Celsius
• Dead Sea weather October: 34-24 degrees Celsius
• Dead Sea weather November: 28-18 degrees Celsius

Travel to the Dead Sea Perfect Dead Sea Family Vacation with Kids Which Celebrities Discovered the Dead Sea?

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Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

9 Things You Should Know Before Visiting the Dead Sea

Visiting the Dead Sea region and getting to float in the famous salty water have been some of my favorite travel memories. I went when I was younger and was fascinated by it ever since! So if you’re planning a trip or just happen to be curious, here is everything you need to know about visiting the Dead Sea.

What Is The Dead Sea?

The Dead Sea is known as one of the saltiest bodies of water on the planet with 34.2% salinity. And is 1412 feet below sea level – making it one of the lowest points on Earth as well. But the Dead Sea isn’t actually a sea, it’s a lake! The salinity comes from high temperatures that evaporate the water, leaving behind the minerals at concentrated levels. For the Dead Sea, salt is the most common.

The Dead Sea gets its name because aside from some microscopic organisms, nothing else can really live there. The salinity of the Dead Sea is too salty for complex organisms so rest assured that there are no sea monsters lurking in the water here!

Tips for Visiting and Floating in the Dead Sea

1. bring flip flops or water shoes.

Unlike traditional beaches, the Dead Sea is really just mud and salt built up – there isn’t a soft sandy beach for you to walk in. We recommend wearing water shoes or flip-flops that can get wet so that you don’t hurt your feet when getting into the water.

2. Don’t Shave!

The Dead Sea is literally one of the saltiest places on the planet. And if you have any scrapes it will BURN! When I went to the Dead Sea as a kid, I remember that you instantly feel any cuts start to sting when you go in the water. You do not want to shave the day you go! Actually, if you plan on going, I recommend you don’t shave in the days leading up to your visit either – especially if you get razor burn easily. Trust me, it stings more than you can even imagine!

3. Don’t Splash or Go Under the Water

The Dead Sea gets its name because the water is so salty that literally, nothing can survive in the water. You’ll want to avoid getting any water in your eyes so make sure you don’t splash around. And to avoid the insanely salty water getting into your eyes, don’t submerge yourself – just float. If the water drips from your hair into your eyes, it’s miserable! Again, take it from me. Flushing your eyes on the beach with bottled water is exactly as much fun as a root canal.

4. Go to a Designated Swim Spot

Going to a designated swim spot for the day is the best way to experience floating in the Dead Sea. You have to pay a fee but it is most certainly worth it! You’ll get access to amenities like showers, pools, and bathrooms. And trust me, you’ll want to rinse off after you get out. If you don’t all the salt sits on your skin and dries, leaving you cakey and salt covered which is really uncomfortable.

5. Wear a Bathing Suit You Don’t Mind Getting Ruined

When we went to the Dead Sea, we didn’t have any of our suits get ruined. But I have heard of others not being so lucky. Make sure you wear a dark-colored swimsuit and maybe leave your favorite one at home, just in case! It is better to be safe than ruin that gorgeous white bathing suit you love, right?

6. Limit Your Time in the Water

The water is really salty, so salty in fact that you don’t want to spend too much time in the Dead Sea. If you do stay in the water too long, you can get dehydrated! Make sure when you get out to rise off and drink plenty of fresh water to avoid getting dehydrated.

7. Buy Dead Sea Mud and have a DIY Spa

There are two things the Dead Sea is known for – floating and mud. The mud is full of healing minerals that are said to be great for your skin! Buy some Dead Sea mud and mud yourself up. It is a key part of any Dead Sea visit and I promise you, your skin will be so incredibly soft.

8. Go Around Sunset

Going around sunset is the coolest time of the day and you’ll get those golden hour photos that are perfect for the gram! Don’t forget that you’re still in the middle of the desert so you’ll be a bit more comfortable once the sun has started to set a bit.

The myth that you can’t drown because you float isn’t exactly true. Floating on the water does make it harder to drown in a traditional sense but that same buoyancy is what makes it dangerous if you flip on your stomach, that same buoyancy is what makes it so hard to flip back over! Not to mention even a few gulps of Dead Sea water can be toxic – so be careful!

Other Helpful Tips

• Make sure to bring a towel so you can dry off and be comfortable after you visit the Dead Sea.
• Don’t forget to pack shampoo & conditioner, and body wash to shower when you’re done. You’ll want to get all the salt out of your hair and off of your skin when you’re done floating in the Dead Sea.
• Bring fresh water with you so you can stay hydrated! Not only are you in the middle of the desert you’re also swimming in one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water – dehydration can happen really quickly if you’re not prepared.
• If you have sensitive skin, be mindful of how much time you spend in the water or how much mud you put on your body as it can irritate your skin.
• Wear sunscreen and don’t forget to re-apply regularly.
• If you get any water in your eyes, flush them immediately with fresh water.

Benefits Of Swimming In The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is said to be great for your skin. The high salt content in the water and the mineral-rich mud are known worldwide. People who have gone to the Dead Sea say it relieves pain caused by their psoriasis and eczema. The mud is also said to improve your skin, reducing aging and wrinkles too. You can even take home products that have Dead Sea mud from any of the shops around the area.

The Dead Sea is without a doubt an intriguing place. And if you’re planning on visiting the Dead Sea, you’ll have a great time floating in the salty waters. With our tips, you’ll make the most of your visit, and be sure to make some amazing memories!

• Juliet by LyraThemes.com

6 Reasons You Have to Visit the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea — one of the saltiest bodies of water on Earth — is truly a wonder. It's so salty, in fact, that it's almost entirely devoid of living things. So, don't expect to see any fish or sea creatures here. (And don't even think about opening your eyes underwater to confirm. Just trust us on this one.)

Despite its name, the Dead Sea is actually a lake, and it's a worthy day trip — or even a weekend getaway — during a visit to Israel. Just beware of open cuts or wounds and definitely don't shave before entering the Dead Sea, or you'll feel the burn. Travelers with sensitive feet may want to wear water shoes, and everyone should pack plenty of sunblock and bug spray.

Some people can handle the salty water better than others, so if you feel your skin start to itch or burn while in the sea, don't hesitate to take a break and get out, rinsing off with fresh water.

Ready to go? Here are six reasons you should add this salty "sea" to your travel bucket list.

It Spans Two Countries

The Dead Sea is bordered by both Israel and Jordan. The TPG team recently floated in the Israeli side, but it's interesting to consider that the border between the two countries bisects the middle of the lake. You can actually see the other side of the lake in Jordan as you float in Israeli waters.

It's One of the Lowest Points on Earth

The shore of the Dead Sea sits at almost 1,400 feet below sea level, and the lake itself is more than 1,000 feet deep. The highway that runs along the lake, Highway 90, is one of the lowest roads in the world at almost 1,300 feet below sea level. We don't recommend getting out of the car to explore the shore unless you're at a specified beach because of the many sinkholes surrounding the Dead Sea — and the possibility of falling into a new one.

Clearly visible from many points along the shore, the sinkholes occur because the Dead Sea is shrinking. As the saltwater recedes, freshwater flows into these areas near the shoreline, dissolving the salt and weakening the ground from inside, making it prone to collapse. The result? Sinkholes. Israel, Jordan and Palestine have been working on a project to resolve the issue since 2013, but still, it's best to avoid going off on your own in these areas just in case.

You Can Float to Your Heart's Content

You could spend hours floating in the Dead Sea (or at least as long as your skin can handle the sodium chloride). Thanks to the high salt content, you'll never sink. Instead, your body will be carried by the water, no matter how much hummus and falafel you've consumed during your travels.

It Has Healing Properties

Many components contribute to the Dead Sea's reported healing properties. The water's high mineral content, containing elements like magnesium, bromide and sodium, are all great for the skin, helping travelers with conditions such as psoriasis or dryness. Muddying up and then rinsing off in the water is also especially purifying — not to mention lots of fun.

The air near the Dead Sea is also good for the skin. Thanks to the lake's low, dry and warm location, the surrounding air has relatively little pollen or other allergens. Plus, the area is almost pollution-free, so it's a dream for anyone with respiratory conditions.

And though it's almost always sunny near the Dead Sea, may people believe its low elevation decreases harmful radiation , as the sun's UV rays have to travel a greater distance. That being said, travelers should still wear lots of sunblock and re-apply often, especially if you plan on enjoying the water all day long. Remember: The mud, while it will cover your skin, doesn't actually count as sunblock.

It's an Easy Day Trip

Depending on what part of the Dead Sea you'd like to reach, it's just a couple hours by car from both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, easily doable as a day trip. We arrived at the Isrotel Dead Sea Hotel in about two hours from Jerusalem.

Masada and the Sea of Galilee Are Nearby

The Dead Sea is about 20 to 30 minutes away from Masada, an ancient fortress in the middle of the Judean Desert. For a small fee, you can take the cable car up the mountain and explore the fortress. Just get there early before the searing heat sets in and enjoy the uninterrupted views of the vast desert and Dead Sea below.

Take a longer drive north to visit the Sea of Galilee (another lake in Israel deemed a sea), but this one isn't salty. The freshwater lake is beautiful and very different from the desert of the Dead Sea, with lots of vegetation, hiking trails and plenty to do in the nearby Golan Heights region. (Stay tuned for a review of the luxurious Setai Sea of Galilee property, coming soon.)

Travel Destinations That May Not Be Around in As Little as a Decade

Posted: March 7, 2024 | Last updated: March 7, 2024

The world has many unique and incredible places to see and visit. Whether the area is known for its rich history, gorgeous beaches or natural wonders, experiencing something beyond yourself and taking in nature's glory is a beloved pastime of many.

However, the earth is ever-changing, and many factors play a part in the destruction or disappearance of several travel locations. Sometimes, the disappearance may be due to climate change and rising sea levels, carelessness of tourists, or erosion. Regardless of the reason, several popular destinations may disappear within our lifetime or become so inhabitable that no one can visit.

To compile a list of the travel destinations that may not be around in a decade, 24/7 Tempo consulted numerous sources, including travel guides such as Rough Guides. Then, these destinations were cross-checked with reputable sources such as National Geographic, scientific papers, and National Parks websites.

From Asia to Montana, here's a look at some destinations around the world that you should try to visit before it may be too late.

The Dead Sea

• Location: Between Israel and Jordan, Southeast Asia
• Known For: Being one of the saltiest bodies of water with a high mineral count

One of the travel destinations that may not be around much longer is the Dead Sea, one of the saltiest bodies of water with the highest mineral count. The inbound lake is so salty that tourists practically float when they sit in it. Many factors play a part in the receding of the Dead Sea shoreline. First, man-made problems include gathering the minerals to export them and shifting the freshwater sources away from the Dead Sea for use. These reasons, which include global warming, contribute to the lake drying up. Additionally, water levels drop around 3 to 4 feet every year , and the receding shoreline has caused dangerous sinkholes, one of which swallowed a parking lot. While the Dead Sea may not completely disappear, if something isn't done to preserve it, it may become more challenging for tourists to experience its wonder and history.

Everglades National Park

• Location: South Florida
• Known For: Covering 7,800 square miles across Florida, it's a wetland ecosystem with a surplus of wildlife.

Rising sea levels are affecting Florida's coastlines, and if the predictions ring true, then the Everglades National Park is in danger of disappearing altogether. The effects of global warming are already rearing their ugly head, with the rise of sea levels, warmer water temperatures, and higher salinity. The changing climate is also affecting the wildlife and plants that thrive in the Everglades.

Seychelles Islands

• Location: Indian Ocean
• Known For: Beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and gorgeous landscapes

The Seychelles Islands are a tourist hotspot known for gorgeous beaches and clear waters. Even better, many of the beaches are not crowded, allowing tourists to enjoy their vacation more comfortably. However, in the future, the Seychelles Islands may become inhabitable . Global warming contributes to rising, warmer waters, leading to the sinking of the islands. Erosion of the shoreline also plays a factor. In December 2023, the president of Seychelles declared a state of emergency after an explosion and severe flooding on the Island of Mahe resulted in injuries and death.

Machu Picchu

• Location: Peru
• Known For: Being the "lost city of the Incas"

Machu Picchu is a popular place for tourists to visit in the South American country of Peru. However, the Incan citadel is in danger of disappearing. With the fragile state of the citadel, the amount of tourists who can visit daily has decreased. Yet, the visits are still taking their toll, leading to erosion at a speedy rate. Along with the many tourists, Machu Picchu is threatened by erosion and landslides. All of these factors may contribute to its destruction.

• Location: Thailand
• Known For: Culture, nightlife, and architecture

While many know that Venice, Italy, is sinking and is predicted to submerge entirely by 2100, another city faces imminent danger of disappearing. Bangkok, Thailand, is only 5 feet above sea level, and many predict that the majority of the city could be underwater by 2030.

The Galapagos Islands

• Location: Republic of Ecuador
• Known For: Giant tortoises and a link to famed scientist Charles Darwin

The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador of South America are in jeopardy of disappearing; some predict this could happen by 2100. However, climate change, the influx of tourists, and volcanic activity leave the Galapagos Islands vulnerable. In 10 years, the Islands will be significantly impacted.

The Mosques of Timbuktu

• Location: Mali
• Known For: Their rich history and architecture

The Mosques of Timbuktu in Mali, Africa, are rich in history. Since the Mosques are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, some strive to conserve their integrity and structure. However, their history goes back to the 14th century, and their structure was made out of mudbricks. These factors make the remaining Mosques of Timbuktu susceptible and vulnerable to erosion, rainfall, and high temperatures.

• Known For: 100-meter cliffs and white, sandy beaches

In 2000, Leonardo Decaprio starred in the movie "Beaches," which prompted an influx of travelers to tour Maya Bay, where the movie was filmed. The problem is that the inflow of tourists has caused damage to the ecosystem. As a result, Maya Bay has shut down numerous times to recover.

• Known For: Culture, beaches, and clear waters

The Maldives Islands' highest point sits below 8 feet above sea level. With rising sea levels, the Maldives are at risk of sinking. Around 80% of the Islands are about 3 feet above sea level . The impact of global warming paints a dire future for the Maldives. Many predictions point towards the Islands being completely inhabitable by 2050 . However, some fear it will be before that.

Majuli Island

• Location: India
• Known For: Being the largest river island in the world

Majuli Island is located in Assam, India, and holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest river island in the world. However, flooding and erosion are impacting the island. To put things in perspective, in the 19th century, Majuli Island measured around 500 square miles and is now around 136 square miles . Between flooding, erosion, and the ever-changing effects of nature, many experts fear that the island will be submerged entirely sooner rather than later.

The Great Barrier Reef

• Location: Australia
• Known For: Being the world's most extensive coral reef system and its diversity of wildlife

Scientists predict that most of the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia may disappear unless we act fast. The disappearance of the reef, which covers a whopping 133,000 square miles, threatens the many animals and marine life that need it for survival. While many factors play a part in the reef's death, climate change is the No. 1 factor causing water temperatures to rise. Pollution is also causing great harm and death to the reef by bleaching it. Although half of the reef has died, many scientists and organizations are working hard to save the rest.

The Glacier at Montana's Glacier National Park

• Location: Montana
• Known For: Beautiful glaciers, trails, valleys, and lakes

The views one takes in while at Montana's Glacier National Park are spectacular. When the Glacier National Park was created in 1910, there was an estimate of around 80 glaciers. Now, there are only 26 glaciers left , and they are melting fast. Annual mean temperatures have been rising since 1910. While some predict that the glaciers may disappear as soon as 2030, it's also possible that they will stick around longer .

Mount Kilimanjaro's Peak

• Location: Tanzania
• Known For: Africa's largest mountain, also a snow-capped volcano

Mount Kilimanjaro is one of Africa's largest tourist attractions. This dormant volcano is the largest mountain in Africa and was once beautifully adorned with a snow cap. However, since 1912, Mount Kilimanjaro has lost around 85% of its ice caps . While the mountain will remain, some predict that the caps will disappear sooner rather than later.

Great Wall of China

• Location: China
• Known For: Being one of the world's seven wonders, its large size and architecture

The Great Wall of China is one of the world's seven wonders. Between its rich history and wonder, it attracts millions of tourists a year. It is the world's largest fortification, measuring just over 13,000 miles in length. However, over 30% of the wall has crumbled completely, leaving only dust in its wake, and around 10% is exceptionally preserved. Natural erosion, tourists, and modern constructions contribute to the crumbling of the Great Wall of China.

Sundarbans Reserve Forest

• Location: Bangladesh
• Known For: Being a biodiverse forest and home to the royal Bengal tiger

Nature lovers enjoy visiting the Sundarbans Reserve Forest. However, the rising sea is a significant contributing factor to the disappearance of the Sundarbans. Four islands have completely disappeared under water: Suparibhanga, Kabasgadi, Bedford, and Lohachara, which led to the displacement of 6,000 families. Deforestation and pollution also contribute to the disappearance of the Sundarbans Forest.

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Middle East latest: US 'moving additional assets' to region amid fears of Iran attack on Israel

Washington officials expect Iran to attack Israel in retaliation to a strike on its embassy in Syria - as the US says it will not be drawn into any wider war and Tehran suggests its response will be non-escalatory. Listen to our latest podcast on how tensions are rising in the region.

Friday 12 April 2024 23:01, UK

• Israel-Hamas war
• Iran's threat of attack is real and viable, White House says
• US 'moving additional assets' to Middle East
• Iran attack on Israel expected in coming days - reports
• Tehran 'telling US' it will avoid major escalation
• Number of Palestinians killed by Israel in Gaza rises to 33,634, health ministry says
• Dominic Waghorn:  Risk of bigger war rising - but Biden knows he can't blink
• Alex Crawford report : Yemeni fishermen face threat of Houthi attack - but on Gaza they are firmly behind the militants
• Explained: Why is Iran threatening to attack Israel? 

That's all for our coverage for now. 

Well be back tomorrow morning with more updates on the Israel-Hamas war and wider tensions in the Middle East. 

Tensions in the Middle East are continuing to increase this evening, as the US moves assets in the region to better protect its forces and bolster regional deterrence. 

It comes amid the threat of an Iranian attack on Israel in retaliation to a deadly strike on its embassy in Syria. 

Earlier, Joe Biden was asked what his message was to Iran. 

You can watch the US president's answer below.... 

More details now on the news we brought you earlier about that US military moving assets in the Middle East. 

An American defence official told Sky News the move was being made to bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase protection of US forces in the region. 

Now, our US partner NBC News has reported most of the assets involved are already deployed in the area and just moving around. 

Officials said moves were being made to be better positioned for defence of Israel and US assets and in case the US needs to respond to whatever Iran does. 

The specific assets being moved in the region have not been identified. 

Germany has advised it citizens to leave Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. 

The German foreign offices warned there was a risk of sudden escalation in Tehran's situation with Israel and also of arbitrary arrest in the country. 

"In the current tensions, especially between Israel and Iran, there is a risk of a sudden escalation," it wrote in a travel warning. 

"It cannot be excluded that air, land and sea transport routes could be affected." 

It said Germans were at "concrete risk" of being arrested, interrogated and being given long prison sentences. 

"Dual citizens with Iranian and German nationality are especially at risk," it added. 

Three Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank today in military raids and settler rampage. 

Israeli forces shot dead two Palestinians, including a member of the armed wing of Hamas, in raids. 

While, the Palestinian Health Ministry has reported at least one person was killed in an Israeli settler rampage near Ramallah.

The Israeli military said Mohammad Omar Daraghmeh, who has been described as the head of Hamas infrastructure in the Tubas area, was killed during an exchange of fire with security forces.

It said a number of weapons and military-style equipment, including automatic rifles were found in his vehicle.

Hamas confirmed Daraghmeh's death and his membership of its armed Al Qassam Brigades.

The official Palestinian news agency WAFA said another man was killed by Israeli forces conducting a raid in the al Far'a refugee camp in Tubas.

Hamas mourned the man's death but did not claim him as a member. 

The military said forces carrying out the operation opened fire on Palestinians who threw explosive devices and killed one man it said was attempting to attack them.

Israel has stepped up military raids in the West Bank since launching its operation in Gaza. 

Joe Biden has reiterated US support for Israel, saying his administration is "devoted" to its defence. 

The US president said his message to Iran, which has threatened to take military action against Israel, was simply "don't". 

"We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," he said. 

His comments come after a US defence official confirmed to Sky News that "additional assets" were being moved to the Middle East to "bolster regional deterrence efforts". 

Iran has threatened to attack Israel in retaliation to a deadly strike on its embassy in Syria last week.

Israel has been widely blamed for the attack, but has not commented on it publicly. 

Around 40 rocket launches have been identified crossing from Lebanon, the Israeli military has said. 

In a Telegram post, the Israel Defence Forces said some rockets were intercepted, and the rest fell in open areas. 

It also confirmed two Hezbollah explosive drones that had entered Israeli territory from Lebanon had been intercepted. 

"Over the last few hours, the IDF struck in a number of locations in southern Lebanon in order to remove a threat," it added. 

Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have regularly exchanged fire across the border since the war in Gaza erupted last year. 

Throughout the day, we have been reporting on the threat of an Iranian attack on Israel. 

The US has warned the threat is "real" and "viable" and, in the last few moments, an American defence official has confirmed "additional assets" are being moved to the Middle East as a result. 

Our security and defence analyst Michael Clarke has said it is "quite likely" Iran will attack, and the US has been given signals all day that it could be "imminent". 

He added he is "fairly sure" Iran will not let go of the deadly strike on its embassy in Syria - which is what sparked the threat of an attack in the first place. 

"The United States is pretty clear now that something is about to happen, maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow, but it won't be much further than that, and it might be quite big," Prof Clarke said.

He explained that the US has said it is more likely Iran will launch a direct attack on Israel, and the Iranians do have missiles with the capability to do so.

Israel has made it very clear it will hit back if Iran decides to attack, and Prof Clarke said some Israelis would "almost like that to happen" so they could attack some of Iran's nuclear facilities. 

You can watch his full analysis below...  

The US is "moving additional assets" to the Middle East, a defence official has told Sky News. 

The move will "bolster regional deterrence efforts and increase force protection for US forces", the official said. 

Our US correspondent Mark Stone said no further details have been provided. 

"That means more military hardware is being moved or will be moved to the region to do two things - try to deter Iran from taking any massive action and also to protect existing American forces that are in the region," he said. 

"I think the consensus among experts is that the Iranian will respond, but they will almost certainly respond against Israel directly rather than any American military in the region. 

"Nevertheless, what that response will look like and what it will mean in terms of an Israeli response, we don't know yet." 

The announcement comes after the White House said it changed its force posture in the region amid threats of an Iranian attack on Israel. 

Fears of an escalating situation in the Middle East have grown in recent days after Iran threatened to attack Israel. 

But how is Iran involved in the conflict - and why is it threatening to attack Israel? 

Firstly, Iran is the biggest backer of Hamas, having provided weapons and training to the militant group in previous years. 

It also backs Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen - both of which have been involved in attacks on Israel since the war in Gaza erupted last year. 

Historically, Israel and Iran have been arch enemies, with both countries allegedly behind a long series of attacks on each other's interests. 

Tensions between the two nations have been increasingly stretched since Israel entered Gaza following the 7 October Hamas attacks. 

But, they became incredibly high last week after an attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria. 

That's why Iran is threatening to attack Israel. 

Two generals and seven members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard were killed in the strike in Damascus, which Tehran has blamed on Israel. 

The US military has said it also believes Israel was behind the attack. 

However, Israel has not publicly commented on the airstrike. 

Iran has been warned by the US not to use the embassy attack as a pretext to escalate the situation in the region. 

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Taiwan's strongest earthquake in 25 years kills at least 9

HONG KONG — Taiwan was shaken Wednesday by its most powerful earthquake in 25 years, a major trembler that killed at least nine people, injured a thousand more, collapsed hundreds of buildings, and triggered tsunami warnings across the region.

Some 143 people, many of them tourists in badly-damaged hotels, were feared trapped in the ruins, the Taiwan National Fire Agency reported.

Rescue efforts were underway to free 71 workers trapped in two rock quarries in the hardest-hit Hualien region, the NFA said. There were also reports that multiple people were trapped in eight collapsed tunnels in and around Hualien City, about 70 miles southeast of the Taiwanese capital Taipei.

The 7.4 magnitude quake happened around 8 a.m. local time (8 p.m. Tuesday ET) at a depth of about 21 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The epicenter was about 11 miles south-southwest of Hualien City, on the island’s Pacific coast.

It was the strongest earthquake to hit Taiwan since 1999, when a 7.6 magnitude tremor killed about 2,400 people, said Wu Chien-fu, director of Taiwan’s Seismological Center.

While 1,011 people have so far been reported injured, Taiwanese fire officials warned that that figure — along with the death toll — could rise in the coming days.

The authorities have still not been able to reach at least 50 people who were riding in mini-buses through Taroko National Park when the quake struck and knocked out local phone networks.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said a disaster response center had been set up and that the National Army would provide support to local governments. She also warned her constituents to be wary of aftershocks.

“I would like to remind everyone not to take the elevator for the time being, and to pay more attention to safety,” the president said.

Annie Lima, an American who has lived in Taiwan for almost 17 years, was visiting friends in Hualien on Tuesday when the building they were in began to tremble. She said there continued to be aftershocks in the afternoon, hours after the initial quake.

“It was pretty scary,” she told NBC News. “In all the years that I’ve lived here and in Southern California before that I’ve felt a lot of earthquakes, but this was by far the strongest and the most frightening.” 

When the shaking started, Lima said she and her husband ran for the nearest doorway.

“Even there in a doorway on the second floor, we could barely keep our balance, you know, holding both sides of the doorway,” she said. “And all around us things were falling off the walls and off shelves, smashing and crashing everywhere.”

Videos on social media showed two buildings in Hualien, one nine stories tall and the other five stories tall, that appeared to be partially pancaked and twisted into odd angles.

Jason Delickta, an American living in the nearby community of Meilun, said his home sustained some damage but his restaurant in Hualien, the Salt Lick Smokehouse & Grill, was “quite a bit worse.”

“We lost most of our plates, because they’re all on top of the line, and so they all were shaking and fell off,” he said. “We lost a lot of liquor bottles, beer bottles, glasses, things like that.”

Delickta said he and other local business operators had been expecting an influx of visitors this weekend. It's the start of a traditional Chinese festival known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, when people honor their ancestors. But the rail service has been disrupted by the earthquake.

“The damage to our restaurant wasn’t so bad, but the economic damage for this town will be,” said Delickta, who was also in Hualien in 2018 when a 6.4-magnitude earthquake killed 17 people. "It’ll be more because of the loss of revenue."

Hualien City has a population of around 106,000. The county’s population is around 340,000.

The earthquake was also felt in all parts of Taiwan, the Central News Agency reported. Metro systems in Taipei, the capital, as well as the cities of Taichung and Kaohsiung, were suspended before mostly resuming, the agency said.

More than 87,000 households had their power knocked out by the quake and the subsequent series of aftershocks, the biggest of which measured 6.5, according to Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration.

A live camera on YouTube captured the moment at 7:58 a.m. local time when the earth began shaking at Liyu Lake near Hualien.

Taiwan is home to TSMC, one of the biggest companies in the island's crucial semiconductor manufacturing industry . A spokesperson said its safety systems were operating normally and that some fabrication plants had been evacuated as a preventive measure.

“All personnel are safe, and those evacuated are beginning to return to their workplaces,” the company said in a statement. “The company is currently confirming the details of the impact.”

Earlier Wednesday, officials in Japan issued a tsunami warning and an evacuation order for coastal areas of the southern prefecture of Okinawa, warning of waves up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) high. As of late morning, the biggest reported wave was 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) on the Japanese island of Yonaguni, which is close to Taiwan.

A tsunami warning and evacuation orders were also issued and later rescinded in parts of the Philippines.

Tremors were reported elsewhere in the region, including by social media users in Fujian, a province on China’s southeast coast that sits across from Taiwan. Videos posted online also showed chandeliers swaying in cities in other parts of China including Shanghai and Hangzhou.

In the Chinese territory of Hong Kong , the Hong Kong Observatory said it had received more than 100 reports of tremors, likening the vibration to the “passing of light trucks.”

A spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office in China, which claims the self-ruling island as its territory, extended “sincere condolences to the affected compatriots in Taiwan,” and said they would closely monitor the situation and were ready to provide disaster relief assistance.

Jennifer Jett reported from Hong Kong, Janis Mackey Frayer reported from Beijing, and Corky Siemaszko reported from New York.

Jennifer Jett is the Asia Digital Editor for NBC News, based in Hong Kong.

Janis Mackey Frayer is a Beijing-based correspondent for NBC News.

Corky Siemaszko is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital.

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• April 12, 2024   •   34:23 How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
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How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam

A mexican drug cartel is targeting seniors and their timeshares..

Hosted by Katrin Bennhold

Produced by Asthaa Chaturvedi and Will Reid

With Clare Toeniskoetter and Lynsea Garrison

Edited by Brendan Klinkenberg and Michael Benoist

Original music by Marion Lozano ,  Rowan Niemisto ,  Dan Powell ,  Pat McCusker and Will Reid

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

Warning: this episode contains descriptions of violence.

A massive scam targeting older Americans who own timeshare properties has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars sent to Mexico.

Maria Abi-Habib, an investigative correspondent for The Times, tells the story of a victim who lost everything, and of the criminal group making the scam calls — Jalisco New Generation, one of Mexico’s most violent cartels.

On today’s episode

Maria Abi-Habib , an investigative correspondent for The New York Times based in Mexico City.

Background reading

How a brutal Mexican drug cartel came to target seniors and their timeshares .

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We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Katrin Bennhold is the Berlin bureau chief. A former Nieman fellow at Harvard University, she previously reported from London and Paris, covering a range of topics from the rise of populism to gender. More about Katrin Bennhold

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