The Dead Sea sits at the lowest point on land on Earth, and its water is so salty that you float without effort. It's one of the most popular day trips from Amman — and one of the easiest to arrange.
Getting there
The Jordanian shore of the Dead Sea is roughly an hour's drive from Amman, depending on where you start and the traffic. The road descends steeply into the Jordan Valley, so expect your ears to pop.
Options:
- Taxi or ride-hailing for the day, agreed in advance for the return trip.
- Private driver or tour, convenient if you want stops along the way.
- Rental car, if you're comfortable driving in Jordan.
Public transport to the beaches is limited, so most visitors go by car.
Where to swim
- Resort day passes: many hotels along the shore sell day access that includes the beach, showers, towels and pools. This is the most comfortable option.
- Public and paid beaches: cheaper, with more basic facilities.
Whichever you choose, make sure there are freshwater showers. You'll need them.
How to float safely
The water feels unlike anything else, and a few rules make the experience pleasant:
- Walk in slowly and sit back as if into a chair. Let the water lift you.
- Don't put your face in the water. Salt in the eyes is very painful. Keep a bottle of fresh water nearby to rinse your eyes if needed.
- Don't swallow any water.
- Avoid shaving the day before — tiny cuts sting a lot.
- Stay in for short periods, around 10–15 minutes at a time, then rinse off and rest.
- Wear sandals or water shoes; salt crystals on the shore can be sharp.
Mud and minerals
Many beaches offer the famous Dead Sea mud. Cover yourself, let it dry, then rinse it off in the sea and under the shower. It's a fun part of the experience — just keep it away from your eyes.
Weather and timing
The Dead Sea area is much warmer than Amman for most of the year. In summer it can be extremely hot, so go early in the day, drink plenty of water and use sun protection. Spring, autumn and winter are more comfortable for most visitors.
What to bring
- Swimwear, a towel and sandals.
- Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- Plenty of drinking water.
- A bottle of fresh water for rinsing your eyes.
- A plastic bag for wet clothes.
Combine it with nearby sites
The Dead Sea is close to other places worth seeing, such as the Baptism Site and Mount Nebo. A driver can combine two or three stops in one day.
The bottom line
Go early, choose a beach with showers, float on your back and keep your face out of the water. It's a short trip from Amman and an experience you won't have anywhere else.
Plan the rest of your trip
- Visiting the Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan)
- Madaba and Mount Nebo: A Half-Day Trip From Amman
- The Best Time to Visit Jordan: A Season-by-Season Guide
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