When planning my trip to Jordan, I knew I had to add the Dead Sea to my itinerary. This seemed like a once in a lifetime experience, but should you visit the Dead Sea in Jordan or is it overrated? Here’s my honest review and essential tips to make the most of your visit.
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My Experience at the Dead Sea in Jordan
I stopped at the Dead Sea as part of a larger Jordan itinerary. We only spent about 3 hours there, but honestly, that was plenty. I feel like I would have gotten bored if we had stayed the night there, so stopping for the day is all you really need. You could book a day tour from Amman here.
When you first arrive, you’ll find gorgeous vantage points overlooking the blue, salt-covered shoreline. I stopped to take a few photos before heading to a hotel that offered beach access to the water. Most resorts in the area charge a small day fee for this.
Once you’re down at the water, you’ll see people slathering on the famous Dead Sea mud. It’s rich in minerals, and many say it’s great for your skin. After covering yourself, it’s time for a once in a lifetime experience.
What It’s Really Like Floating in the Dead Sea
Floating in the Dead Sea is a really fun experience as you try to situate yourself in the water. It’s also such a strange sensation to try to stand up when you’re in high enough water. None of this is done gracefully, as hard as you may try.
You should only stay in the water for about 20 minutes. Any longer, and the salt can dehydrate your skin and start to sting. And if you have any cuts or scrapes, you’ll feel it! Be careful putting on the mud because even a small scrape by a stone can cause some serious stinging in the water.
Essential Tips for Visiting the Dead Sea in Jordan
Limit your float time to 20 minutes. The salt content is extremely high and can quickly dry out your skin.
Don’t shave for a couple of days beforehand. Freshly shaved skin will sting in the salty water.
Wear water shoes. Salt deposits along the shore can be sharp and uncomfortable to walk on.
Cover any cuts or scrapes with waterproof bandages, even tiny ones will burn.
Rinse off right away after getting out of the water to remove the salt.
Final Thoughts
Is the Dead Sea in Jordan worth it? Yes, but only as a short stop, not an overnight destination. It’s an amazing experience, but there isn’t much to do beyond floating for 20 minutes and snapping some pictures.
If you’re traveling through Jordan, plan for a few hours at the Dead Sea. It’s the perfect quick detour between Amman and Petra. Make sure to check out my week long Jordan Itinerary to help you plan a memorable trip!
Packing List for Jordan
- Lightweight hiking shoes for Petra and Wadi Rum
- Supergoop is my go-to face sunscreen
- I recommend using a small hiking backpack for your time in Wadi Rum and Petra
- Scarves if you are visiting mosques
- Packable jacket for chilly desert nights
- Cargo pants for desert exploration
- Linen pants to beat the head
- Airalo eSIM (only works on unlocked phones)
- Ekta Travel Insurance