Discovering the miraculous muds of the Dead Sea and historical excursions in the surroundings: this place will leave you speechless!
To outline part of the border between Jordan and Israel There is the Dead Sea, a site of extreme tourist interest, which offers nature, well-being and history. 400 meters below sea level, this huge salt lake is one of the most popular destinations in Jordan, also due to its proximity to Jordan's major attractions.
The Dead Sea can be reached from the capital Amman with a journey of 45 minutes, even less the distance that separates it from Madaba, but it is also possible to sleep on its banks, in one of the many resorts that arise there. A day on the Dead Sea it means relaxation and well-being at 360 °.
What to do on the Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is famous for its healthy muds and very salty water, essential ingredients that immediately make you think of a SPA. You have two choices for taking advantage of this natural wellness center: or access the private beaches which are grouped in its northern part, or go in search of free beaches frequented by locals.
If you prefer comfort, then the best choice will be the first. The resorts offer daily admission services, the cost of which varies from place to place, with an average of 20/30 Jordanian dinars (around € 25). The amenities and services of the resorts are not to be underestimated on the Dead Sea. The high level of salinity of its waters will force you to immediately take a shower as soon as you get out of the water.
Furthermore, the beaches are often stony, or the coasts are jagged, so an equipped beach is not easy to find. Also, undressing in public could lead to embarrassment for both you and the Muslims who frequent public areas. The daily entrance fee includes: deckchairs, use of showers and the opportunity to try miraculous mud of the Dead Sea.
100% local experience
If you want to try a100% local experience you can go looking for one free beach. Arm yourself with lots of bottles full of water to rinse off the salt and diving slippers to face the seabed, then look for the most promising areas along the coast. They are usually easy to spot due to the level of crowds of people and cars along the road. At that point don't be afraid to ask for information and be prepared to float in the Dead Sea.
What to do around the Dead Sea
When you tire of basking in the sun and mud, a short distance from the Dead Sea you will be spoiled for choice. For the more adventurous there is the Wadi Muji, a canyon 400m below sea level, where you can follow paths between the stormy waters and the high desert coasts.
North of the Dead Sea, on the other hand, if you want an immersion in the biblical history of these places, there is the Baptisme Site. Here it is thought that Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. The path to follow runs along the Jordan, early Christian churches, remains of what was the baptismal font until it comes out on the river itself. At certain times of the year it is possible to dive to reproduce the experience of baptism itself.
