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Getting Around

Public Transportation

Public transportation in the Dead Sea region mainly consists of bus services, connecting resort areas to larger urban centers. No metro or tram systems directly serve the Dead Sea area itself.

Planning trips in advance, especially for weekend travel in Israel, is good practice due to reduced services. Confirm bus stops and times with local staff or at the bus station to avoid confusion.

Bus System Overview

  • Israel: Egged intercity buses connect Dead Sea resorts to major cities.
  • Jordan: JETT buses offer services from Amman to Dead Sea resorts.
  • Jerusalem Central Bus Station (Israel) and Amman's Abdali Station (Jordan) are main hubs.
  • Services generally operate from early morning to late evening.

Operating Hours

Bus services operate from early morning until late evening. Expect reduced service on weekends and Jewish holidays in Israel.

Accessibility Notes

Modern Egged buses in Israel show increasing accessibility. Older buses and local minibuses may not be accessible. JETT buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Efficiency Aids

Utilize apps like Moovit (for Israel) for real-time bus schedules and routes. This aids planning and anticipating delays.

Ticketing and Fares

Israeli Fares
  • Rav-Kav card is a reloadable smart card for nationwide public transport.
  • Purchase and load at central bus stations or kiosks.
  • Single ride tickets possible onboard with cash/credit on some buses.
Jordanian Fares
  • Local minibuses: Cash payment directly to the driver is common.
  • JETT buses: Pre-booked tickets required, purchased online or at JETT offices.
  • Fares for private transport often require negotiation.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxi Colors

Israel: white with yellow roof sign. Jordan: yellow cabs.

Hailing

On the street, at stands, or via apps.

Fare Practices

Israel: Meters mandatory. Jordan: Negotiate or insist on meter.

Payment

Cash preferred; some taxis/apps accept cards.

Rental Options

While public transport and taxis serve the region, a rental car offers maximum flexibility for independent exploration. Other rental types are less common.

Car Rental Essentials

  • Valid national driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Major credit card for security deposit.
  • Minimum age for rental is typically 21-24, surcharges for under 25.
  • Major companies: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Sixt. Eldan (Israel).

Driving Laws & Roads

  • Both Israel and Jordan drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Speed limits are enforced (urban 50, rural 80-90, highway 100-120 km/h).
  • Roads to Dead Sea resorts are generally well-paved and in good condition.

Parking Information

  • Free parking is typically available at hotels and attractions.
  • Resort areas and tourist sites usually offer designated parking.
  • Always check local signs for any restrictions or payment policies.
  • In larger towns or cities nearby, paid parking might be more common.
  • Avoid parking in no-parking zones to prevent fines or towing.
  • If unsure, seek guidance from hotel staff or local authorities.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Availability

Less common in the Dead Sea region.

Recommendation

Generally not recommended for touring due to long distances and high-speed roads.

Conditions

Hot desert conditions make them less practical.

Walking and Cycling

While a rental car is often the most practical option for covering distances, walking and cycling have their place for specific activities and localized areas.

Walking Paths

  • Walking is pleasant within resort complexes.
  • Sidewalks are often limited along main highways outside resorts.
  • Main pedestrian-friendly areas are designated hiking trails.
  • Nature reserves like Ein Gedi (Israel) offer marked walking routes.

Cycling Guidance

  • Dedicated cycling infrastructure is limited outside resort properties.
  • Cycling on main roads (Route 90, Dead Sea Highway) is not recommended.
  • High speeds, limited shoulders, and intense heat pose challenges.
  • Some resorts offer bicycle rentals for use within their property.

Safety for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Avoid walking/cycling on main highways connecting resorts.
  • Adhere strictly to marked paths in nature reserves.
  • Stay away from potential sinkholes and unstable terrain.
  • Observe all warning signs for safety.
  • Always use caution, especially near vehicle traffic.
  • Desert terrain can be unforgiving; proper footwear is important.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Bus Services
  • Common for day trips from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or Amman.
  • Often combine Dead Sea visits with nearby attractions.
  • No hop-on-hop-off service specific to the Dead Sea area.
Accessibility Options
  • Masada in Israel has a cable car system for summit access.
  • Masada's cable car is wheelchair accessible.
  • Pre-arranged accessible taxis are advisable for mobility needs.

Getting Around

For comprehensive regional exploration, a rental car offers the most flexibility.

For resort-based stays or day trips, buses and taxis present viable choices.