Israel And The Palestinian Territories
The Dead Sea, also known as the Salt Sea, is a hypersaline lake. Jordan borders it to the east. Israel and the Palestinian West Bank border it to the west. This body of water sits in the Jordan Rift Valley, part of the larger Great Rift Valley. At roughly 430.5 meters (1,412 feet) below sea level, its surface and shores mark Earth's lowest land elevation.
The Dead Sea region holds deep historical and biblical meaning. Many ancient texts, including the Bible, mention it as the location of old cities like Sodom and Gomorrah.
The fortress of Masada, an UNESCO World Heritage site, stands on an isolated rock plateau overlooking the Dead Sea. It gained fame from the Roman army's siege against Jewish rebels in 73 CE. The Qumran Caves, also near the Dead Sea, are where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. These ancient manuscripts offer insights into biblical times. The unique climate, combined with mineral-rich waters and mud, has been useful for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes for thousands of years.
The Dead Sea offers more than just a place to visit; it presents an experience rooted in deep history and unique natural science. Prepare for a journey that connects you with ancient pasts and modern relaxation.
Visitors float in the buoyant water, apply therapeutic mud baths, hike desert trails, and explore historic sites. The area also offers spas for wellness treatments.
Jordan Rift Valley; borders Israel, Palestinian West Bank, and Jordan.
Approx. 430.5 meters (1,412 feet) below sea level.
Approx. 34.2% salt, nearly 10 times saltier than ocean water.
Israeli New Shekel (ILS) in Israeli-controlled areas; Jordanian Dinar (JOD) in some Palestinian areas.
Hebrew and Arabic (official); English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Masada National Park provides a look into ancient history. Ein Gedi Nature Reserve offers a desert oasis with fresh water. Qumran National Park shows where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. Dead Sea beaches and spas provide relaxation and wellness.
The water and mud contain minerals like magnesium, calcium, bromide, and potassium. These minerals have benefits for skin conditions, joint pain, and respiratory issues.
The air around the Dead Sea is different; it has more oxygen and fewer allergens due to its low elevation.
The Dead Sea presents an unique experience rooted in deep history and natural science. Plan for a journey that connects you with ancient pasts and modern relaxation.
Discover the main attractions that make the Dead Sea region a remarkable travel destination. Each site offers an unique blend of natural wonder, history, and cultural significance.
From ancient fortresses to desert oases, the Dead Sea region delivers diverse experiences for every traveler.
Experience the unique buoyancy of the hypersaline water, a relaxing and memorable activity.
Explore the ancient fortress, an UNESCO World Heritage site with a storied history overlooking the Dead Sea.
Discover a desert oasis with fresh water springs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
The Qumran Caves are where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. These ancient Jewish and Hebrew religious manuscripts offer insights into biblical times.
