Blending golden beaches with exceptional historical and religious heritage, the Dead Sea stands as an outstanding alternative to conventional seaside vacations. Here's everything you need to know.

A getaway at the Dead Sea: swimming, relaxation, and outdoor adventures

The desire for rest and sunshine draws thousands of visitors to the shores of the Dead Sea. It differs from ordinary seawater in that no aquatic creature can withstand its salinity. Swimming is highly recommended—not only for enjoyment but also for its health benefits.

Isn't it scientifically established that Dead Sea mud baths can treat certain ailments? Numerous wellness centers offer invigorating and soothing massage therapies. Craving adventure? The surrounding hills and mountains invite paragliding, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Luxury hotel properties welcome guests throughout their stay, situated just steps from the Dead Sea's renowned archaeological ruins, historical monuments, and natural wonders.

What Makes the Dead Sea Unique

The Dead Sea is not a sea in the traditional sense, but rather a salt lake. It is fed by the Jordan River, which marks the border between Israel and Jordan. Three characteristics distinguish the Dead Sea: its warmth, its exceptional mineral content, and its location at the lowest point on Earth. Its waters contain bromine, potash, and chlorides of sodium and magnesium. While hostile to animal and plant life, the Dead Sea's waters possess recognized therapeutic properties.

Since antiquity, the lake has been a renowned thermal resort throughout the Near East. Royal figures, such as Herod of Judea and Egyptian queen Cleopatra, bathed in its buoyant waters.

What to See and Do at the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea offers a wealth of attractions. From mud baths on the beach to paragliding experiences, nature reserves, and archaeological treasures, there's something for everyone.

Swimming in the Dead Sea

Taking a swim in the Dead Sea is an experience unto itself. Its high salt concentration allows you to float effortlessly and uniquely. It is practically impossible to sink in the Dead Sea—you can simply sit or relax without risk of going under. An ideal experience for those who cannot swim.

However, swimming in the Dead Sea requires certain precautions. While the waters benefit your health, they produce toxic effects if ingested. Swimmers are advised to take care. Bathing should not exceed 20 minutes. It's wise to avoid submerging your head underwater or getting water in your eyes. For men, shaving is not recommended for the five days before visiting the beach. Similarly, if you have any cuts, no matter how minor, or have recently waxed your legs, swimming is strongly discouraged—salt attacks wounds and slows healing, not to mention the intense stinging sensation you'll experience. If you're concerned about metal sensitivity, consult a physician before attempting the thermal cure.

The Thermal Cure

Jordanians primarily use the Dead Sea as a beach destination. There's nothing left to do but lounge on the shore, perfect your tan, and test the virtues of mud baths.

Amman Beach

Bordered by crystalline waters, Amman Beach is the closest beach from the capital. You'll need to descend a steep and rugged slope to reach it. An entrance fee applies.

Mineral Beach

A generously-sized pool draws tourists to Mineral Beach. Slip into the mud, let minerals revitalize your skin cells, float gently on the water. Upon leaving the pool, you'll notice how rejuvenated your skin appears—free of impurities and blemishes. Medical studies have proven that the Dead Sea eliminates acne and effectively relieves back pain and arthritis.

Ma'In Hot Springs

About 9 miles from the Dead Sea, the Ma'In natural pools and waterfalls offer thermal bathing in an exceptional setting. The spa, sauna, and steam baths attract crowds to the area. For luxury enthusiasts, a five-star hotel has opened near the mountains.

Religious Tourism

For a more complete stay, balneotherapy can be combined with a pilgrimage to biblical sites. North of the Dead Sea, visit Bethany Beyond the Jordan, where Christ received baptism as an investiture in his mission of salvation. Pay your respects at the Lot's Cave, beautifully perched on the clifftside, near the ruins of a Byzantine church. It is believed that Lot and his two daughters sought refuge in this cave after the Lord set Sodom and Gomorrah ablaze. According to Scripture, it was here that Lot's two daughters committed a terrible act of incest, making their father drunk and bearing Moab and Ben Ammi. The Moabites and Ammonites are their descendants. On the eastern shore of the Dead Sea, the fortified palace of Machaerus stands before you. It was the property of Herod the Great and later of Herod Antipas. You'll recall the banquet organized by King Herod, the dance of Herodias's daughter, and the beheading of John the Baptist, whose head she requested as a gift at her mother's urging.

Green Tourism

Once you've had your fill of history, take a breath of fresh air at the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, renowned throughout the region for its majestic waterfalls. The view of the Dead Sea will take your breath away. Other natural sites include Na'Hal David Stream, the Qumran Caves, where the biblical scrolls written by the prophets were discovered, and the Masada National Park, inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List.

Practical Information

When to Visit?

To explore the Dead Sea and its surroundings, autumn and spring months are most favorable. July and August bring oppressive heat. Visitors are better off avoiding the summer season.

The Dead Sea is 55 km from Amman, Jordan's capital. To reach Amman Beach, you have two options: take a taxi for 4 JD ($6) or catch a bus to Rame from the Mujaharin bus station ($1.50). Once you arrive in Rame, take a taxi to the beach. Traveling with your English-speaking local travel agency, you'll benefit from a private vehicle with driver to transport you to the Dead Sea.