Swimming in the Dead Sea, an unforgettable experience in Jordan
A trip to Jordan is simply incomplete without experiencing a float in the Dead Sea.
A trip to Jordan is simply incomplete without experiencing a float in the Dead Sea. With its extraordinary salt concentration, this natural wonder guarantees an exceptional bathing experience where you can only float. Here's everything you need to know about swimming in the Dead Sea and what to explore in the surrounding area.
The Dead Sea in Jordan
At the crossroads of Jordan, Israel and the West Bank lies the Dead Sea. This unique place on Earth is the lowest point on the planet, with the Dead Sea sitting at an altitude of -417 meters! Fed primarily by the Jordan River, it's actually more of a salt lake than a sea. What makes it most remarkable is its incredible salt concentration. Indeed, with a salinity level of approximately 27.5% compared to 4% for average seawater, the Dead Sea truly lives up to its name—no fish or plants can survive in its waters. Yet it is still possible to bathe in it, or rather to float upon it. You cannot swim in the traditional sense in these waters, but floating here will offer you a unique experience unlike anywhere else…
Rules to follow when swimming in the Dead Sea
The minerals present in the Dead Sea's waters are an excellent source of benefits for the skin and body. Legend has it that Cleopatra herself came here for treatments to preserve her complexion… But if you're tempted by this experience, it's best to prepare properly and know the guidelines. It's recommended to swim in the Dead Sea at designated locations (public beaches or private hotel beaches). Since it's advised not to stay in the water for more than 20 minutes (beyond that, the salt can become harsh on the skin), it's better to have access to a shower nearby or bring fresh water to rinse off after your float. Furthermore, it's not advisable to bathe if you have cuts or wounds, and avoid submerging your head. Finally, wear water shoes as the bottom can be sharp in certain areas.
What to see and do around the Dead Sea
Beyond therapeutic soaks and floating, the Dead Sea is also an opportunity to pursue other discoveries and activities. Don't miss the Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve with its extraordinary landscapes where you can enjoy beautiful hikes through gorges, waterfalls and stunning orange-hued cliffs. You can also go canyoning here. Check weather conditions in advance as access is not always open due to flooding.
History and culture enthusiasts can make the most of a stay around the Dead Sea to discover the treasures of Madaba or Mount Nebo. The former is renowned for housing within its church the oldest known map of the Holy Land and Jerusalem. As for Mount Nebo, you'll find a museum dedicated to the story of Moses (legend says he died there after viewing the Promised Land) as well as stunning panoramas over the Dead Sea and its surroundings (the Jericho oasis, the Jordan Valley and the Judean mountains). To finish, you can explore the region via the spectacular King's Highway, which gives you the opportunity to stop at unmissable sites in Jordan such as Shawbak, Dana and Petra.
Experience the unique sensation of floating in the Dead Sea by joining our Gentle Jordan tour or our hiking tour through Jordan's nature reserves.
Frequently asked questions
It is recommended not to exceed 20 minutes in the Dead Sea waters. Beyond that, the high salt concentration (27.5%) can become aggressive on the skin and cause irritation. Plan for a shower or bring fresh water to rinse off after your float.
No, it is not possible to swim in the traditional sense in the Dead Sea. Due to its exceptional salinity level of approximately 27.5%, the body naturally floats at the surface. It is also strongly advised against submerging your head to avoid any risk of eye and mucous membrane irritation.
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal times to visit the Dead Sea, with pleasant temperatures between 68 and 86°F. Summer (June-August) is very hot with temperatures exceeding 104°F, making bathing strenuous.
The Dead Sea is approximately 35 kilometers west of Amman, about 1 hour's drive away. You can get there by taxi, rental car or organized shuttles from the Jordanian capital. Some hotels also offer direct transfers.
Before floating in the Dead Sea, avoid shaving or waxing in the 24 hours before. Do not bathe if you have wounds or cuts, as the salt would cause intense pain. Wear water shoes as the bottom can be sharp, and bring fresh water to rinse off after your float.
Yes, there are public beaches accessible for free or at minimal cost on the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea. However, private hotel and resort beaches offer better facilities: showers, loungers, fresh water rinse stations and access to mineral mud treatments. Entry to these complexes is typically paid (between 15 and 30 Jordanian dinars).
