The Dead Sea is the saltiest lake in the world, a natural wonder you have to see.
Is the Dead Sea on your bucket list? If not, it should be! It is a once in a lifetime experience and truly a unique natural wonder.
Where is the Dead Sea?
The Dead Sea is in the Jordan Valley, with Jordan to the East and Israel and the West Bank to the West. To see the Dead Sea you can base yourself out of either Jordan or Israel, the choice is yours!
There are several public beaches on the Israeli coastline where you can park (for 5 shekels) and walk down to the Dead Sea. In the north, there is Kalia Beach and Biankini Beach, where there are swimming pools, showers, bars, and restaurants to galavant around. In the southern part of the Dead Sea, there is Ein Bokek Beach which is known as the “hotel zone.” In “hotel zone” you can experience the mud spa too!
Dead Sea a wonderful salt valley
The Facts
As mentioned previously, it is the saltiest lake in the world! The water is so dense that it is actually impossible to sink. It also is at the Earth’s lowest elevation on land, 423 meters below sea level. Because of the extreme salt levels, there is no aquatic life such as fish or plants.
It is a sight to behold with its intense turquoise waters and white salt ridges with other strange crystal formations. There are various geometric salt formations that look like art and some like mushrooms. It makes for great photos!
Unfortunately, the Dead Sea is rapidly shrinking as the waters are being drawn off from streams and rivers as well as being used for agriculture, mining, and other industries. However, the proposed solution is funneling water from the Red Sea so that it doesn’t disappear.
What’s So Special?
The healing powers of the Dead Sea are real. Due to the high mineral content, dry climate, and reduced UV levels because of its distance from the sun, the Sea is healing for all sorts of conditions. It is also extremely stimulating and exfoliating for your skin.
It is great for people with psoriasis because they can receive the benefits of sunbathing for long periods of time without the high risk of skin cancer. If you have osteoarthritis, the mud therapy at the Sea results in less joint pain. Additionally, those with cystic fibrosis are able to breathe a lot easier due to the area’s higher atmospheric pressure.
The Dead Sea is also known for its therapeutic bath and beauty products such as facial cleansers, bath salts, masks, and moisturizers. You will be able to find them in shops and resorts around the Sea!
Where to Stay
There are plenty of convenient places to stay around the Dead Sea. It is an easy day trip if you stay in Jerusalem as it is only about an hour away by car. If you plan to spend several days at the Dead Sea there are several hotels, hostels, bed & breakfasts, and even campgrounds nearby!
Some popular hotels are Kibbutz Ein Jedi Hotel, Ein Gedi Hotel, Isrotel Ganim Hotel Dead Sea, and the Royal Hotel Dead Sea. Traveling on a budget? Check out the Metsoke Dragot Hostel or the campgrounds.
Dead Sea Safety
Some important safety tips to keep in mind when taking a dip in the Sea are:
- Keep your head out the water
The Dead Sea is almost ten times saltier than the ocean. Our human skin can handle it, but if you swallow or inhale some of the water, it is not good. It may even require serious medical attention. Especially for older people or people with heart conditions.
- Make sure a lifeguard is on duty before going in
Follow the instructions of the lifeguard on duty, because they know the waters. Just be smart.
- Be mindful when walking in and out of the water
Many people actually drown in the Dead Sea, because they run through the waters, trip, and their head goes under, causing them to swallow or inhale the waters.
- Thoroughly rinse off after going in
There are showers on the beach you can use!
Besides all of the above, have fun, relax, and enjoy this unique natural wonder. It may not be around forever, so seize the day!
