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.