The Dead Sea is one of the most remarkable natural phenomena in the Middle East. Approximately 1.5 million years ago, the Dead Sea and its surroundings were completely covered by the ocean. As a result of an earthquake, the Jordan Valley was formed, creating lakes in lower areas. Due to the extremely hot and dry climate, most of the water that flows into the sea evaporates, leaving behind salt and other minerals. This process gave birth to the Dead Sea, which is located 420 meters (1378 feet) below sea level, making it the lowest point on Earth. It is called the ‘Dead Sea’ because no fish or other animals can survive in its water due to its salt content of 33%. What makes it truly unique is that you effortlessly float on its water. Read all the things you need to know about the Dead Sea here so you know what to expect!
10 Tips for Visiting the Dead Sea
When you travel to Jordan, a visit to the Dead Sea is a must. Floating in the Dead Sea is a unique experience that you should try at least once. However, there are a few do’s and don’ts you should know before entering the water. Below, you’ll find all our tips for visiting the Dead Sea.
#1 Don’t shave for two days
The Dead Sea is 10 times saltier than the ocean. Therefore, you can imagine that it stings quite a bit if you have a cut or freshly shaved legs. Avoid shaving at least two days in advance and try not to get any cuts in the days leading up to your visit.
#2 Wear an old bikini or swim trunks
Chances are your bikini or swim trunks will get discolored or lose their elasticity after you’ve been in the Dead Sea. Therefore, make sure to wear old swimwear. It can also be helpful to wear water shoes or sandals as there are many slippery stones in the water, and you can easily slip. Keep in mind that even these items can be damaged by the salty water.
#3 Remove all your jewelry and ensure your hair doesn’t get wet
Your jewelry and hair won’t appreciate the extremely salty water of the Dead Sea. Your jewelry may change color immediately, and the water will dry out your hair significantly.
#4 Gently lie on your back
It’s wise to enter the Dead Sea in a specific way. If you jump or enter the water too abruptly, there’s a high chance of getting splashes in your eyes and mouth. The saltwater can be compared to acid in your eyes, and if you happen to taste the salty water, you’ll quickly realize how unpleasant it is. Just try licking your finger while you’re in the water, and you’ll understand what we mean. Therefore, walk into the water for a bit and then gently lie on your back. You don’t need to do anything else because you will effortlessly float on the water.
#5 Apply the mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea
The mud from the Dead Sea contains 26 types of minerals and has deep-cleansing properties. You’ll notice that your skin feels incredibly smooth and soft afterward. The mud is particularly effective in treating acne, eczema, and psoriasis, as well as relieving muscle pain and rheumatic conditions. At the private beaches of the resorts, you’ll always find a large pot of mud that you can use to apply to your skin free of charge. Let the mud dry in the sun after applying it and then enter the Dead Sea to wash it off.
#6 Do not stay in the Dead Sea for more than 15 minutes and stay hydrated
Due to the high salt content, your body and skin can quickly become dehydrated. Therefore, it’s important not to stay in the water for more than 15 minutes at a time and to drink plenty of water afterward. If you experience dry skin after showering, applying body lotion will work wonders.
#7 Rinse off immediately with fresh water
After coming out of the Dead Sea, always rinse off thoroughly with fresh water. Showers are available at the resorts. If you enter the Dead Sea elsewhere where there are no showers, make sure to bring bottles of fresh water with you.
#8 Search for salt crystals during sunset
About a 30-minute drive from the resorts, you’ll find a beautiful section of the Dead Sea. In the surf, you’ll find large salt crystals and a white layer of salt on the ground. The water is very clear, and it’s fantastic to watch the sunset from here. You can find the exact location of this spot here.
#9 Stay at a resort on the Dead Sea
Normally, we’re not really into large resorts, but if you want to visit the Dead Sea in Jordan, you don’t have many alternatives. The Dead Sea is mostly surrounded by rocks, and there are only a few places where you can access it. There are several resorts located directly on the Dead Sea, which is the ideal way to experience it. We stayed at Mövenpick, a 5-star resort with a private beach where you can easily walk into the Dead Sea. In addition to its excellent location, the resort features multiple large swimming pools with breathtaking views of the Dead Sea, and the breakfast and dinner buffet is incredibly delicious.
An alternative to a resort is to visit the Dead Sea through a “Public Beach.” We didn’t go there ourselves, but we have read many stories about it being dirty, expensive for what you get, and that some women don’t always feel comfortable wearing a bikini there.
#10 Directly from the Dead Sea to the airport
Staying at a resort may be a bit pricey, but you only need to stay here for one night (although two nights wouldn’t be a bad idea either). It’s best to do this towards the end of your trip because the resorts at the Dead Sea are only a 45-minute drive from the airport. This way, you don’t have to go back to Amman but can head directly to the airport after your stay at the Dead Sea. Besides, it’s quite nice to conclude your journey with some luxury.
List of all resorts on the Dead Sea:
Kempinski Hotel Ishtar
Dead Sea Spa Hotel
Hilton
Crowne Plaza
Mövenpick Resort
Marriot Resort
Salt Sea Apartments
