The more I visit Jordan, the more I fall in love. A trip to the Dead Sea is one of the top things…and for good reason!
While the Dead Sea is often associated with Israel, it actually sits on the border of Israel and Jordan (Jordan to the East, Israel to the West).
Did you know that it’s the lowest point of land on Earth at over 400 meters below sea level?
Oh, and fun fact: it has over 30% salinity (that’s the salt to water ratio…about 10 times more salt than typical seawater!). Because the water is so dense, it allows you to effortlessly float.
I definitely prefer slow travel, but you don’t need to stay in the area for more than one night.
So if you’re trying to fit a bunch of things into your Jordan itinerary, don’t fret. Get to your accommodation by midday and leave around midday the next day, and you’ll have ample time to experience the Dead Sea!
If you’re wanting to discover the marvelous wonders of the Dead Sea for yourself and cover yourself in its magical mud, here are my tips for visiting!
The Ultimate Jordan Travel Guide
Jordan was my first-ever trip to the Middle East. I was astounded by the Dead Sea, inspired by the ruins of Petra, and mesmerized by Wadi Rum.
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Getting to the Dead Sea
The best way to get around Jordan and visit the Dead Sea is to rent a car.
Jordan is a super-easy country to drive in, and having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore all the top sights at your own pace. If driving’s not your thing, you can also hire a private driver for your trip.
FYI, public transportation isn’t really an option for reaching most of the key spots around the country.
You’ll likely fly into Amman, Jordan’s capital, to start your trip. It’s easy to rent a car either at the airport or in the city center. From there, it’s about an hour’s drive to the Dead Sea, where you’ll find the main resorts.
Where to Stay at the Dead Sea
I’ve traveled to Jordan four times and stayed at the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea each time. This luxurious, resort-style property is set along the northern shore with direct beach access to the Dead Sea, nine outdoor swimming pools, and a stunning infinity pool that seems to melt into the sea.
The hotel blends elegant Arabic-inspired design with green gardens, waterfalls, and amazing views of the water. There are multiple restaurants and lounges to choose from, one of the largest spas in the Middle East, and spacious rooms with private balconies.
Around the Dead Sea, you’ll typically find gigantic resorts near major tourist sites, and Kempinski is absolutely worth the splurge.
Once you’ve arrived, check in and grab lunch at one of the poolside restaurants. If the weather’s warm (it usually is), I highly recommend spending a lazy afternoon pool-hopping or getting a spa treatment at their world class spa.
For dinner, make a reservation in advance at Rehan Lebanese at the hotel for some of the best Lebanese food you’ll ever eat. Request a table outside just before sunset for the best views.
Tips for Soaking in the Dead Sea
Typically, the resorts only keep their pools and Dead Sea paths open while there are lifeguards on duty, so access to the Dead Sea usually closes when the sun sets.
It is HOT midday, so I recommend heading to the resort beach about an hour or so before sunset.
Helpful Tip:
Soaking Time
Because the Dead Sea is so salty, it’s incredibly dehydrating. You should only soak in the sea for 10 minutes. I know this might not seem like enough time, but it is!
Cover Yourself in Mud
Once you’ve soaked, get out and cover your body in the Dead Sea mud. Kempinski Hotel has huge tubs of mud on the beach provided for you with mirrors, and it’s quite fun to cover yourself with it and get really muddy!
Relax + Dry
Then you sit on a little bench and let it dry for about 15-20 minutes (it doesn’t have to be completely dry). Most hotels will also provide bottles of water, so you’ll want to keep drinking as it is super dehydrating. On my last stay, they even handed out popsicles! This mud is famous for its detoxifying and therapeutic effects.
It’s rich in magnesium, calcium, potassium, and iron. These vitamins help regulate heart rate, circulation, and cell communication. Plus, it does wonders for your skin!
Rinse + Soak
After the 15-20 minutes, go into the Dead Sea to float one last time and rinse the mud off. If you put the mud on your face DO NOT use the Dead Sea to wash it off—in general, avoid splashing around completely.
The tiniest drop of water in your eyes will momentarily blind you as it is so salty. It’s one of the most painful things I’ve ever experienced.
Just float, and don’t get it above your neck (my recommendation). It should be a very relaxed and controlled float.
Shower Off
Once you’re mostly clean, get out and go to the outdoor showers to fully wash off the mud and the Dead Sea salt. There’s usually a large bowl of Dead Sea salt available so you can scrub your whole body for one final exfoliation. Do this last as any abrasions will sting if you return to the Dead Sea! Then rinse off one final time and feel amazing.
If you can time it around sunset, it really is spectacular.
A Note on Cuts/Abrasions
If you have any cuts on your body, you will feel them, and they will likely sting! I had a blister on my foot, and it hurt for about 30 seconds, and then I stopped feeling any pain. The general feeling is a very dull, uncomfortable sensation.
The same thing goes for exfoliating. I would not recommend exfoliating (or shaving) your body for a few days before entering.
Where ot Find Dead Sea Salt Formations
If you’re chasing those dreamy, white salt formations you’ve seen all over Insta, here’s what to know: the best ones on the Jordan side of the Dead Sea aren’t outside the major resorts.
You’ll need to head south, towards the Wadi Mujib entrance along the Jordan Valley Highway.
While these areas aren’t great for swimming (the salt-covered rocks are sharp and the entry points are rough), they’re perfect for photos.
Just take care when climbing down to the shore. There’s no official path, so it’s more of a DIY adventure.
Helpful Tip:
I’ve pinned some of the beautiful spots I found while driving (some include parking options)—you can access the map here.
You can also type these locations into Google to see some amazing salt formations:
- Numeira Salt Beach
- The White Crystals Beach
- Swimming Salt Beach
Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea
Day 2 at the Dead Sea
Typically, hotels in Jordan don’t require check-out until noon, so you’ll have plenty of time for a morning activity, especially if you get up for sunrise!
Here are some ideas for spending your last day at the Dead Sea:
- Relax at one of the hotel pools
- Enjoy a spa treatment at the resort spa
- Another dip in the Dead Sea
- Get an early start, hike the Siq Trail at Wadi Mujib (one of my favorite experiences in Jordan), visit Mount Nebo, or get baptized at Bethany Beyond the Jordan. More info on these activities below!
I love watching the sunrise from the Kempinski Ishtar‘s soup bowl-style pool! That morning, if you want to take one final dip in the Dead Sea before you head out, do so.
Typically, I leave after lunch to head to Petra for Petra at Night, so you have plenty of time to relax and enjoy!
More on my perfect Jordan itinerary here!
Visiting the Dead Sea Takeaways
- Be prepared for a slight sting if you have any cuts or abrasions
- Don’t get any of the Dead Sea in your eyes/above your neck
- Drink lots of water—it’s very dehydrating!
- Follow the instructions on how long to float
- Don’t wear your favorite bathing suit
- Go at sunset if possible!
More Activities Around the Dead Sea
There’s more to the Dead Sea region than just floating (although that’s definitely a highlight!). If you have a car or a driver, you can easily add these experiences to your itinerary.
Wadi Mujib
Hands down, one of my favorite adventures in Jordan! This slot canyon hike takes you through cool water, over rocks, and even up a few mini waterfalls—it’s a total blast. It’s about a 20-minute drive from the Kempinski, so it’s perfect to do either the morning before check-in or the morning you check out.
Important note: Wadi Mujib is only open during the dry season from April 1st to October 31st, and you’ll need to arrive early to beat the crowds and get a ticket.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan (The Baptism Site)
This is the site where it’s believed Jesus was baptized, and it’s a must for history lovers and anyone curious about the region’s spiritual heritage. You’ll need to join a guided tour at the Visitor Center, but it’s a peaceful, meaningful visit just a short drive from the Dead Sea resorts.
Spa Treatment
Whether you’re staying at Kempinski Hotel or not, a visit to the Ishtar Spa by Resense is absolutely worth adding to your Jordan itinerary. You can purchase a Day Pass to experience the outdoor pool, sauna, steam room, Dead Sea pool, whirlpool, and Tepidariums. Or book a massage or Hamman experience—just be sure to book well in advance as it’s very popular!
Mount Nebo
A must-see for the views alone! Mount Nebo is the site where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land, and on a clear day, you can spot Jerusalem in the distance. There’s a beautiful memorial church at the summit and some ancient mosaics that are well worth a look.
TBA Escapes
Want to experience Jordan with a group of like-minded women?
Join us on the TBA Escapes Ancient Wonders Tour! It’s a luxurious, action-packed adventure through Jordan’s must-see spots. The tour includes exploring Petra, diving in the Red Sea, floating in the Dead Sea, and adventuring through the deserts of Wadi Rum—all alongside an incredible group of women.
With TBA Escapes handling the details, you can focus on epic photo ops, cultural deep-dives, and creating unforgettable memories.
Learn more about my all-female tours, TBA Escapes, and apply for a future tour here!
Highlights from the TBA Escapes Jordan Ancient Wonders Tour
From Petra, diving in the Red Sea, floating in the Dead Sea, and exploring the deserts of Wadi Rum—here are the highlights from the TBA Escapes Jordan Tour!
Read More!
Plan your Jordan Itinerary
If you are planning a full trip to Jordan and would like some recommendations for how to plan the trip, check out my 10-day Jordan itinerary and 7-day Jordan itinerary!
Thank you very much for sharing this wonderful sea. Is there any uber near the area?
Hey there! I’m not sure if Uber is operating in the area, we had a private car, so you’ll have to check Uber’s site and see if they are available in the area. There may be other car service alternatives, too.
Hello,
I have a questions would you suggest us flying to Aqaba from Amman to save time in the car. We will be visiting Petra, wadi rum, and Dead Sea and Jaresh on way back to Amman to fly to Cairo! Or would you suggest us starting in Amman would appreciate any feed back you could provide!
Thanks
Hi Carla! I didn’t mind the drive and liked seeing the scenery in between, but if you’re trying to prevent time in the car, you could go this route. I started in Amman, so that might be the better option — you can find my full itinerary here to get a better idea: https://www.theblondeabroad.com/10-day-itinerary-for-jordan/