Holiday in Dead Sea

What makes Dead Sea special as a destination?

The Dead Sea is one of the most extraordinary places on Earth — the lowest point on the Earth's surface, 430 meters below sea level, and the saltiest body of water in the world. Floating here, without having to move, while reading a newspaper is a surreal experience that everyone should have at least once. The salt content of 34% — ten times higher than normal seawater — makes it physically impossible to sink. You step into the water and are instantly pushed upwards. The feeling of weightlessness while drifting on the surface and looking at the barren mountains of Jordan and Israel is both amusing and meditative. The black mineral mud on the shore has been valued for its healing properties since ancient times. Cleopatra is said to have used it for her beauty care. Even today, visitors cover themselves from head to toe with the mud, let it dry, and rinse it off in the mineral-rich water — the skin feels silky smooth afterward. The minerals (magnesium, calcium, potassium) are said to help with skin diseases, rheumatism, and respiratory illnesses. The Jordanian side offers the best access: luxury spas and resorts like Kempinski and Mövenpick are located right on the shore and offer pools, spa treatments, and private beach sections. Alternatively, there is the public Amman Beach for budget travelers. However, the Dead Sea is dramatically shrinking — the water level drops by one meter each year, and the coastline has retreated by kilometers since the 1960s. A visit therefore carries a sense of urgency: this natural wonder will become significantly smaller in the coming decades. Combined with Petra (3 hours), Wadi Rum, and Amman, the Dead Sea is an essential part of any trip to Jordan.