September 2, 2024, 3:57 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Ghostly salt sculptures, healing mud packs, unique nature with waterfalls in the surrounding area, and thousands of years of history make the salt lake between Israel and Jordan one of the most fascinating travel destinations in the world.
Thick salt crusts forming whimsical shapes may evoke images of a cool, icy landscape. However, the reality is a scorching 40 degrees Celsius. A visit to the Dead Sea, nestled between Jordan and Israel, is a must-have experience in one’s lifetime.
Its extraordinary mineral composition, coupled with an average salt content of 28 percent, sets the Dead Sea apart, rendering its waters truly unique. By comparison, the Mediterranean Sea only contains around 3.8 percent salt. Located around 420 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest lake on earth. Despite its name, the Dead Sea is by no means dead. The smallest microorganisms and various salt plants survive in this extreme natural environment. People also draw their energy from the water: the water and mud are said to be good for the skin. They are even said to have a healing effect.
Black mud and water-like oil
The water feels viscous, slipping through one’s fingertips as smoothly as oil. Because it has a very high density, it supports the human body like a floating cork. Many have seen those iconic images of individuals leisurely reading newspapers while floating on their backs atop the Dead Sea, buoyed as though on an invisible air mattress.
Many visitors rave about the silky softness of their skin following a dip in the sea’s mineral-rich waters. A spa stay at the Dead Sea can work wonders for people with skin conditions like neurodermatitis and psoriasis or joint conditions such as rheumatism. For countless visitors, the pinnacle of their Dead Sea experience is slathering themselves from head to toe in its therapeutic black mud and basking as it dries. You can then rinse off again under a freshwater shower.
Oases and ruins in Israel
The Dead Sea borders Israel and the West Bank, which is largely under Palestinian administration, to the west and Jordan to the east. The Jordan River flows through the salt lake and is also the natural border. There is plenty for tourists to discover on both sides.
On the northern, western shore of the Dead Sea, which belongs to the West Bank, there are a few places with swimming pools and the usual souvenir stores. The Qumran Caves, where countless valuable biblical scrolls were found, are located in the mountains. After a short climb, you can visit the caves and the ancient settlement of Qumran.
Like a mirage, the Hotel Kibbutz Ein Gedi emerges amidst the sandy desert landscape on the southern Israeli west bank. It looks like an oasis. But the heart of the Ein Gedi desert oasis is the nature reserve. Here, you can embark on a hike through verdant greenery, discover plants from across the globe in the botanical garden, and find respite from the heat under a cascading waterfall or in a serene natural pool. With some luck, you might spot wild ibex, rock hyrax, or even leopards.
Another nearby highlight is the Masada National Park. Perched on a plateau above the Dead Sea, the ancient rock fortress of Masada, erected by Herod around 30 BC, proudly stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Hot waterfalls and a vast castle in Jordan
Many bathing spots on the Jordanian side attract sun-seekers and wellness fans, especially in the northern part. Near the Dead Sea, in Hammamat Ma’in, travelers will find hot waterfalls that have been appreciated since ancient times. This natural wonder is an awe-inspiring sight you should not miss.
A hike through spectacular scenery is possible in the Mujib nature reserve. You walk along the course of a river through rock faces more than 200 meters high and can cool off at a waterfall at the end. Further south lies the Wadi Numeira, a deep canyon whose reddish stone walls beckon hikers for an unforgettable journey.
Around two kilometers northeast of Safi, on the southern lake of the Dead Sea, you can visit the ruins around Lot’s Cave – including a Byzantine church and the remains of mosaics. The ascent may be challenging with its many steep steps, yet the panoramic view at the summit is a rewarding spectacle.
The historic highlight on the Jordanian side is the well-preserved Crusader castle from the 12th century in Kerak. This historic fortress is nestled in the mountains, a mere 30-minute journey from the coast.
At the southern end of the Dead Sea is the Bab edh-Dhra excavation site with the ruins of a city wall and thousands of ancient shaft tombs. It is believed that there is a connection with the biblical city of Sodom, which is said to have been destroyed by the wrath of God due to the sinful behavior of its inhabitants.