Dead Sea (Jericho Area)

البحر الميت

The world's lowest and most saline body of water, offering unique floating experiences and mineral-rich therapeutic mud treatments. Visitors can swim effortlessly and enjoy desert beachfront resorts with spectacular views.

Things to do

• Float in the Dead Sea — Experience weightless floating in the world's most saline body of water where buoyancy makes it impossible to sink, a unique natural phenomenon.
• Mud Treatment at Amman Beach — Apply mineral-rich therapeutic mud from the Dead Sea floor to your skin for purported healing and rejuvenation benefits.
• Visit the Dead Sea Museum — Learn about the geological, historical, and scientific significance of the Dead Sea through exhibits and displays.
• Sunset viewing from Ein Gedi Beach — Watch the sun set over the Palestinian hills from the eastern shore while enjoying the mineral-rich waters.
• Hike to Wadi Mujib waterfall — Trek through desert canyons to reach a freshwater waterfall that flows into the Dead Sea, offering respite from the salt waters.
• Resort spa treatments — Indulge in professional Dead Sea salt scrubs, mud wraps, and mineral baths at luxury beachfront resorts like Amman Beach Resort.

Food to try

• Zarb (Jordanian underground oven meat) — Slow-cooked lamb or chicken seasoned with spices and vegetables, traditionally prepared in an underground pit, served throughout the Jericho area.
• Fresh Date Pastries — Pastries filled with locally grown dates from Jericho's famous date groves, often served with Arabic coffee or mint tea.
• Grilled Fish from the Dead Sea — Fresh tilapia or other local fish caught from the Dead Sea, grilled with simple seasonings and olive oil at waterfront restaurants.
• Hummus and Pita Bread — Creamy chickpea dip seasoned with tahini and lemon, served warm with freshly baked pita from local bakeries near the shore.
• Salatah (Mixed Vegetable Salad) — Refreshing salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions dressed with olive oil and lemon juice, perfect after a swim in the salty waters.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect conservative dress codes — Wear modest swimwear and cover-ups, particularly when visiting resort areas and nearby Palestinian communities where conservative Islamic dress is observed.
• Bring fresh water and moisturizer — The high salt concentration will dry your skin and eyes, so carry fresh water to rinse off and moisturize immediately after leaving the water.
• Greet with respect and hospitality — Local vendors and service staff appreciate courteous greetings in Arabic like 'Assalamu alaikum' and will often invite you to share tea or coffee as a gesture of welcome.
• Be aware of political sensitivity — The Dead Sea region borders Palestinian territories, and visitors should be respectful of the complex political situation and avoid discussing it carelessly with locals.