Dead Sea

Many travelers visit the Dead Sea on a day trip from Amman in Jordan, or from Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Herzliya, or Eilat in Israel. A full-day tour to the area makes getting there simple, and offers plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and soaking in a therapeutic mud bath. You can also combine a quicker visit to the Dead Sea with other regional highlights, including Masada, Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, Jericho, Jerusalem, or Bethlehem.

• The Dead Sea is a must-see for any first-time visitor to the region.

• Dead Sea tours can last upwards of 10 hours.

• Pack some water shoes to protect your feet from the rough salt at the bottom of the sea.

• Wear an old bathing suit, as the salty water and mineral-rich mud can discolor fabrics.

• Don’t shave for at least a day or two before your Dead Sea swim, as the salt can sting.

The remote Dead Sea is pretty far away from any major city, making arriving independently via public transportation somewhat tricky. There are bus services from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, but most visitors find it more convenient to join a guided small-group or private tour with round-trip transportation included.

The best times to visit the Dead Sea are during the spring and autumn months, when milder temperatures make it a good time to explore some of the Judean Desert’s other outdoor sights. Expect temperatures over 100°F (38°C) during July and August.

The water and mud of the Dead Sea are believed to do wonders for your skin, and there’s a set routine followed by those in the know. Start by getting into the water (fall backward, not forward) for a 10-minute float. Make your way toward shore and give yourself a mud rubdown. Once the mud dries on your skin, get back in the water for another floating session before rinsing off in the showers.

Yes, the historically significant Dead Sea is worth visiting. This “salt sea” was named in the Bible, and today it's a place to float weightlessly in the water—a sensation that's worth experiencing. What’s more, the mineral-rich water is chock full of therapeutic benefits, so it’s good for you too.

Yes, it never hurts to book in advance, but it may not always be necessary. Schedule private trips with customized itineraries well in advance. For shared excursions, making a reservation one or two days ahead of departure is usually enough, since there are many tour operators offering Dead Sea trips.

The best time to visit the Dead Sea is in spring and autumn, although the salt lake can be visited year-round. The Dead Sea gets scorching hot in summer—the water can reach 90°F (32°C). And air temperatures can be brisk in winter. Aim for the milder seasons if possible.

Yes. Public Dead Sea beaches have bathrooms, open-air showers (to wash off the salt), and changing rooms. You won’t be lacking in amenities, which is a good thing. Note that peeing in the Dead Sea isn't advised as it can sting due to the water’s high salt content.

Depending on which tour of the Dead Sea you choose, it might include a stop at Ein Gedi Nature Reserve for a hike through the desert oasis. Some early morning itineraries stop in the hilltop fortress of Masada to see the ancient panoramic ruins. Still others include only beach time.

Bring a towel and sunscreen to the Dead Sea, plus a hat or other sun protection for when you’re lounging on the shore (the UV rays are strong). You can also pack water and snacks, although there are refreshments on-site. Boutiques at the Dead Sea also sell packs of mud.