Dead Sea Travel Guide

Introduction

The Dead Sea, located at the lowest point on Earth, is one of Jordan’s most unique and breathtaking natural wonders. Famous for its hypersaline water, therapeutic mud, and mineral-rich properties, this place attracts visitors seeking relaxation, wellness, and adventure. Whether you’re floating effortlessly in the salty waters, enjoying a luxury spa treatment, or exploring the surrounding biblical and historical sites, this sea offers an unforgettable travel experience in Jordan.

Essential Information About the Dead Sea, Jordan

  • Location: Approximately 50 km (31 miles) southwest of Amman, Jordan.
  • Elevation: -430 meters (-1,411 feet) below sea level, the lowest land elevation on Earth.
  • Best Time to Visit:
    • Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November) – Pleasant temperatures, ideal for swimming and outdoor activities.
    • Winter (December-February) – Cooler but still enjoyable.
    • Summer (June-August) – Extremely hot, but resorts offer cooling facilities.
  • Entry Fee:
    • Many beaches and resorts charge a fee (starting from 10 JOD).
    • Public beaches are available, but they lack facilities.
  • Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD).
  • Language: Arabic (English is widely spoken in tourist areas).
  • Time Zone: GMT+3.
  • Dress Code: Modest swimwear recommended; some resorts require proper beach attire.

Interesting Facts About the Dead Sea

  1. It is 10 times saltier than ocean water, making it impossible for most life to survive—hence the name “Dead Sea.”
  2. You can’t sink! The high salt concentration allows you to float effortlessly.
  3. The sea mud is rich in minerals and known for its skin-healing properties.
  4. It is the world’s lowest point on land, at -430 meters (-1,411 feet) below sea level.
  5. It is disappearing—the water level has been dropping about 1 meter per year due to water diversion projects.
  6. The Sea is mentioned in the Bible, including stories of Sodom and Gomorrah.
  7. Famous historical figures like Cleopatra and King Herod used the Dead Sea for beauty and health treatments.

How to Get There

By Air

  • Fly into Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), Amman, which is about 50 km away.

By Road

  • From Amman: ~1-hour drive (50 km) via the Dead Sea Highway.
  • From Petra: ~3-hour drive (200 km).
  • From Aqaba: ~4-hour drive (280 km).

With Bus or Taxi

  • JETT buses operate from Amman to the place, but schedules vary.
  • Taxis and private drivers are the most convenient options.

Car Rental

  • Renting a car is an excellent way to explore at your own pace.

Best Things to Do at the Dead Sea

1. Float in the Salty Waters 🏊‍♂️

  • Experience weightlessness as you float effortlessly.
  • Avoid getting water in your eyes—it stings!

2. Cover Yourself in Sea Mud 🛀

  • The mineral-rich mud has therapeutic benefits for the skin.
  • Many beaches and resorts provide mud treatments.

3. Relax at a Luxury Spa 💆‍♀️

  • Enjoy the mineral baths, salt scrubs, and mud wraps at top resorts.

4. Visit the Sea Panoramic Complex 🌄

  • A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Dead Sea.
  • Features a museum on the history and ecology of the area.

5. Explore Wadi Mujib – The Grand Canyon of Jordan 🏞️

  • Hike the Siq Trail, a thrilling canyoning adventure through waterfalls and gorges.
  • Open April to October; life jackets are provided.

6. Discover the Baptism Site of Jesus – Bethany Beyond the Jordan ⛪

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, believed to be where John the Baptist baptized Jesus.
  • Located just 9 km from the place.

7. Take a Sunset Walk Along the Shore 🌅

  • The Dead Sea’s golden sunsets are breathtaking.
  • Best spots: Amman Beach, Mövenpick Resort, and the Dead Sea Panoramic Complex.

Best Accommodation Near the Dead Sea

Luxury Resorts (5-Star Hotels & Spas)

  • Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea – Ultimate luxury, infinity pools, and top-notch spa treatments.
  • Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea – A Swiss-inspired resort with a private beach.
  • Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa – Elegant modern rooms, multiple pools, and restaurants.

Mid-Range Hotels & Resorts

  • Dead Sea Spa Hotel – Good value, family-friendly with Dead Sea access.
  • Ramada Resort Dead Sea – Offers great facilities at a more affordable price.

Budget-Friendly Stays

  • Mujib Chalets – Simple but scenic, located near Wadi Mujib.
  • Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea – Great for budget travelers looking for resort-style facilities.

Top Attractions Near the Dead Sea

  1. Bethany Beyond the Jordan – The site of Jesus’ baptism.
  2. Mount Nebo – Where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land.
  3. Madaba – Famous for Byzantine mosaics and the Madaba Map.
  4. Wadi Mujib – A stunning canyon with adventurous hiking trails.
  5. Ma’in Hot Springs – Thermal waterfalls and natural hot springs for relaxation.

Getting Around 

  • Taxis and private drivers – The easiest way to travel.
  • Car rental – Highly recommended for visiting surrounding attractions.
  • Resort shuttles – Some hotels offer transport to nearby sites.

Best Day Trips from the Dead Sea

  1. Petra (3-hour drive) – Jordan’s most famous archaeological wonder.
  2. Wadi Rum (4-hour drive) – Explore the Mars-like desert landscape.
  3. Amman (1-hour drive) – Discover Jordan’s capital city and historical sites.
  4. Jerash (1.5-hour drive) – Visit one of the best-preserved Roman cities.
  5. Ma’in Hot Springs (30-minute drive) – Relax in natural thermal waterfalls.

Practical Tips for Visiting 

  1. Do not shave before swimming – The high salt content will sting.
  2. Rinse off after floating – The salt can dry out your skin.
  3. Avoid submerging your face – Saltwater in your eyes is painful.
  4. Bring water shoes – Some beaches have rocky shores.
  5. Stay hydrated – The desert heat can be intense.
  6. Use sunscreen – The sun’s rays are stronger at lower altitudes.
  7. Visit in the morning or evening – Avoid peak heat hours.

Conclusion

The Dead Sea is one of Jordan’s most fascinating and unique destinations, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, wellness experiences, and historical significance. Whether you’re floating in the salty waters, covering yourself in healing mud, exploring nearby biblical sites, or relaxing at a luxury spa, the this place is a must-visit location in Jordan.

🌊🏜️✨ Plan your getaway and experience the magic of this natural wonder!

Dead Sea, Jordan
Dead sea, Jordan
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