Dead Sea

Israel, Middle East

The Dead Sea, a legendary salt lake bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel to the west, is renowned for its extraordinary buoyancy and healing properties. It is the lowest point on Earth and a natural spa destination, offering beaches, mineral-rich mud, and therapeutic waters. Visitors can float effortlessly in its saline waters and explore nearby historical sites like Masada. The striking landscapes, wellness resorts, and serene atmosphere make it a unique escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Region

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Bar Yehuda

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Dead Sea

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Float in the Dead Sea

Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.

No booking required
2

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Apply Dead Sea mud

Indulge in a therapeutic mud treatment that's famous for its skin benefits.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Masada National Park

Explore the ancient ruins atop a mountain with stunning views.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Swim at Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

Enjoy a refreshing swim in natural springs surrounded by desert beauty.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Dead Sea Observatory

Learn about the unique ecosystem and geology of the Dead Sea.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a sunset cruise

Enjoy stunning views of the Dead Sea at sunset.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Dead Sea Spa

Relax and rejuvenate with spa treatments using Dead Sea minerals.

Booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a jeep tour

Explore the surrounding desert landscapes in an exciting jeep tour.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Dead Sea Salt Pans

Witness the unique process of salt production in the Dead Sea.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in the Judean Desert

Experience breathtaking hikes in the stunning desert landscapes.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ein Bokek Beach

Relax on the sandy beaches of the Dead Sea.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~12%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

5 (#38 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Israeli Sheqel

Majority religion

Jewish

Language

Hebrew

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Falafel

VE

Deep-fried chickpea balls (National dish)

Hummus

VE

Creamy chickpea dip with tahini

Shakshuka

V

Poached eggs in spicy tomato sauce

Sabich

V

Pita with fried eggplant and hard-boiled egg

Jachnun

V

Slow-cooked Yemenite pastry

Phrases to learn

English

Hebrew

Hello

Shalom

(Sha-lohm)

Yes/No

Ken / Lo

(Ken / Loh)

Thank you

Toda

(Toh-dah)

Excuse me

Slicha

(Slee-chah)

How much?

Kama?

(Kah-mah)