How to experience the Dead Sea in Jordan
The Dead Sea in Jordan is one of the most special natural phenomena in the world. It is the lowest point on Earth and is 431 meters below sea level. In addition, it is also the saltiest lake in the world, with a salinity of approximately 33%. The Dead Sea is a paradise for those who love relaxation, health and beauty. Here you can float on the water, rub yourself with the mineral-rich mud and enjoy the sun. Pamper your skin when you return home with the natural products made here. In this article you will find all the tips on how to get there, where to stay, what to do and what to pay attention to.
How to get to the Dead Sea in Jordan
The Dead Sea is about an hour’s drive by car from Amman, the capital of Jordan, and about three hours’ drive from Aqaba, the only coastal city in the country. This is ideal if you are traveling with a rental car. You can also take public bus transport, but that is less convenient and they do not run as often as you would like. Buses run from Amman to Ma’in, where you can transfer to a taxi or minibus to your hotel or resort on the Dead Sea. Another option is to book a day trip to the Dead Sea from Amman.
Tip: If you are taking a trip through Jordan, the Dead Sea is a fantastic point to end your trip. Not only because you can completely relax here, but also because Amman airport is very easy to reach.
Look for salt crystals during sunset
From the resorts, it takes about 30 minutes by car to get to a part of the Dead Sea that is open to the public and free to visit. You can simply park along the road here. Take the path down and from here you can walk along the water. Here you will find large pieces of salt crystals and see the salt deposits that clearly show how high the water has been. The water here is very clear and if you want to swim we advice you to take plenty of fresh water with you to rinse the salt off. It is also a beautiful place in the evening, for example you can watch the sunset here. This is the exact location of the public beach.
Tips before swimming in the Dead Sea
Swimming in the Dead Sea is undoubtedly one of the highlights of your visit to Jordan. With these tips you will go into the water prepared.
Do not wear jewelry when entering the salty water
The salt can corrode everything except gold. The high salt content causes a chemical reaction with other metals, causing them to discolor or corrode.
Do not shave shortly beforehand and check carefully for wounds
The salt will make any scratch or scrape sting. This is because the salt in the water removes moisture from your skin. This can be painful if your skin is damaged or irritated.
Don’t float in the water for too long
Do not spend more than 15 minutes in one session in the Dead Sea. The water is so salty that it can dry out your skin by taking away its moisture.
Slowly sink into the water and find your balance
The water of the Dead Sea has a high density due to its salt content. This ensures that you float easily. Swimming or moving in the water is a lot more difficult because you are constantly pushed upwards. It is therefore better to lie quietly and enjoy floating.
Don’t let your hair get wet
The salt is very bad for your hair and can dry it out, damage it or break it. It can also change or fade your hair color if you have dyed hair.
Bring old swimwear
The salt can discolor or shrink your swimwear. The salt water can have a bleaching effect on some fabrics or colors, making them lighter or different. It can also reduce the elasticity in your clothes, causing them to fit or stretch less.
Rinse with fresh water after swimming
As it dries, the salt crystallizes on your skin and can feel uncomfortable. This is because it feels rough or sticky. It can also dry out your skin, which can cause irritation or itching.
Do not take any equipment into the water
The salt sticks to everything and can get into or on your camera or phone and causing damage to it. It is therefore better to take photos before you get in the water or after when you have completely rinsed and dried.
Apply the mineral-rich mud
The mud of the Dead Sea is rich in minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium and iron, which are good for your skin. These minerals nourish, soften and heal your skin. You can cover yourself with mud that you can find for free on the beach or in buckets at the hotels. Let the mud dry on your skin and then rinse it off in the water. You will be amazed at how soft and smooth your skin will feel afterwards.
Where can you stay at the Dead Sea?
The Dead Sea has a wide range of accommodations, mainly consisting of luxury resorts with swimming pools, spas and restaurants. This is the most ideal way to visit the Dead Sea. While this obviously comes with a price tag, a little bit of luxury at the end of your trip is quite nice. We have listed our favorite resorts below.
- Mövenpick Dead Sea Jordan (see photo): This resort has a private beach located directly on the Dead Sea. You walk straight into the water and there is a pot of mud with which you can rub yourself for free. The hotel also has large swimming pools with fantastic views over the Dead Sea.
- Dead Sea Spa Hotel: This is a resort that offers comfortable rooms with views of the Dead Sea or the mountains. The resort has a private beach on the Dead Sea with sun loungers and parasols, an outdoor pool with water slides and an indoor pool. But also a spa with massages and treatments and a fitness center.
- Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa: This is a luxury resort that offers elegant rooms and suites with balconies or terraces overlooking the Dead Sea. The resort also has a private beach on the Dead Sea with floating pontoons and two outdoor pools. The Hilton also has a spa with saunas and steam rooms with a fitness center.
- Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea: This is a luxury resort that offers stylish rooms, suites and villas with terraces or balconies overlooking the water or the gardens. The resort also has a private beach on the Dead Sea with sun loungers and parasols and nine outdoor pools plus an indoor pool.
Discover the sights near the Dead Sea
From the Dead Sea in Jordan you can also discover nearby attractions. There are several historical, religious and cultural places you can visit. Below we have listed the most important sights in the area.
Baptism Site
This is the place where Jesus Christ was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. It is a holy place for Christians all over the world, who come here to pray, meditate or be baptized. You can also see several churches, chapels, monasteries and monuments here.
Mount Nebo
This is the place where Moses looked out over the Promised Land before he died. It is an important place for Jews, Christians and Muslims, who come here to pay tribute to Moses. You can also enjoy the panoramic view over the Jordan river here.
Ma’in Hot Springs
Located near the Dead Sea, these natural hot springs offer relaxation and healing. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the soothing thermal baths.
Mukawir (or Machaerus)
Located on a hilltop in southern Jordan, Mukawir is an archaeological site containing the ruins of the ancient Herod Fortress. It not only offers historical significance and also beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Madaba
Madaba is an ideal destination for those who love art, history and religion. It is one of the oldest cities in the country that is already mentioned in the religious scripts. Madaba is best known for its collection of Byzantine-era mosaics. But it also has nice shops, charming cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal.
The Dead Sea is a great place to relax and to get to know the local culture. Enjoy the luxury here and feel weightless in the salty water. If you looking to do more in this amazing country we highly recommend visiting the ancient city of Petra, read all about in our extensive article.
