Dead Sea (Karak Area)

البحر الميت

The lowest point on Earth, famous for its hypersaline waters that allow visitors to effortlessly float and its therapeutic mineral-rich mud and waters. Multiple resort facilities and public beaches in the Karak region offer access to natural spas and unique swimming experiences.

Things to do

• Float in the Dead Sea — Experience the unique buoyancy of the hypersaline waters where you effortlessly float due to the extremely high salt concentration (34% salinity).
• Therapeutic Mud Treatment — Apply the nutrient-rich black mud from the Dead Sea floor to your skin, which is believed to have healing properties for skin conditions and is left to dry in the sun before rinsing.
• Visit Karak Castle — Explore the impressive Crusader castle perched on a hilltop overlooking the Dead Sea valley with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Dead Sea Spa Resort Experience — Enjoy full-service spa facilities at resorts like Marriott Dead Sea or similar properties that offer mineral baths, massages, and wellness treatments using Dead Sea minerals.
• Hike Wadi Mujib — Trek through the dramatic canyon of Wadi Mujib just north of the Karak area with stunning rock formations and seasonal waterfalls flowing toward the Dead Sea.
• Sunset Beach Visit — Watch the sunset over the Dead Sea from the public beaches in the Karak region, experiencing the unique mineral-rich atmosphere and landscape.
• Visit Lot's Cave — Explore the biblical cave where Prophet Lot is said to have sought refuge, located in the hills near the Dead Sea with religious and historical significance.

Food to try

• Zarb (Bedouin Roasted Meat) — Lamb or chicken slow-cooked in an underground pit with vegetables, a traditional Jordanian specialty commonly served at local restaurants near the Dead Sea resorts.
• Mensaf — Jordan's national dish of lamb cooked in a yogurt-based sauce served over rice and topped with nuts and fresh herbs, widely available at regional restaurants.
• Freshwater Fish from the Jordan River — Local tilapia and catfish caught from the nearby Jordan River, grilled simply with lemon and served at traditional Jordanian eateries in the Karak area.
• Hummus and Falafel — Creamy chickpea paste and fried chickpea patties available at every local cafe and restaurant, often served as appetizers with fresh pita bread.
• Maklouba (Upside-Down Rice Dish) — Layered rice, eggplant, and meat cooked together then flipped onto a plate, a festive dish popular in Jordan and served at family-style restaurants near the Dead Sea.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly and Bring Cover-ups — While swimming attire is acceptable at the beach, Jordanian culture values modesty so bring a cover-up for walking around resorts and public areas away from the water.
• Don't Get Salt Water in Your Eyes — The Dead Sea's extreme salinity burns eyes intensely, so always wear goggles while floating and rinse off thoroughly with fresh water immediately after leaving the water.
• Greetings and Hospitality Matter — Jordanians are warm and hospitable; learn basic Arabic greetings like 'Salam alaikum' (peace be upon you) and expect locals to offer mint tea as a sign of welcome.
• Ramadan Dining Customs — During Ramadan, many restaurants may have modified hours and dining is more subdued during daylight fasting hours, so plan meals accordingly and be respectful of the holy month.