The Dead Sea shore sits around four hundred meters below sea level, the lowest dry land on Earth, and the water is so salty that you float without effort. It is about an hour from Amman, which makes it one of the easiest half-day escapes in the country. This private trip collects you from your hotel or the airport in a car with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, takes you to the shore, and brings you back about six hours later. Most visitors spend their time floating, covering themselves in mineral-rich mud and relaxing by a pool. The trip price covers the transport; entry to a resort beach or pool is a separate cost, and an upgraded package that includes resort access is offered, so choose according to how much comfort you want. A public beach is the cheaper alternative.
How it works
The trip is about six hours door to door, with roughly an hour of driving each way and about four hours on the shore. Your driver waits and brings you back to your Amman hotel or the airport. Bottled water is provided, and hotel pickup makes it easy to fit around other plans. Transport-only and resort-package versions are both offered, so check which one you are booking.
Floating etiquette
Enter slowly, keep your face and eyes out of the water, and do not shave beforehand, as the salt stings cuts. Do not swim vigorously or splash. Rinse off in the freshwater showers afterward, and wear sandals, as the shore can be rocky or salt-crusted. Bring sun protection, since the air is thick and the sun strong even in winter.
When to go
Spring and autumn are comfortable, summer is very hot, and winter days can be warm enough for a float. Most resorts have pools and food, so you can make it a relaxed afternoon. If you want a longer day, you could pair it with Madaba and Mount Nebo.
What to expect
The experience
A private half-day trip in an air-conditioned car with hotel pickup, a driver and time on the shore.
Best time
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable; summer is very hot, and winter days can still be warm.
How long
About six hours, with about four on the shore.
Tips
Choose the resort package if you want a pool and beach, do not shave beforehand, and keep water out of your eyes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants to float in the Dead Sea without arranging a taxi and resort.
- Families
- Children enjoy floating, but supervise closely and keep water away from their eyes.
- Couples
- A relaxed afternoon of floating, mud and pool time.
- Pair with
- Madaba and Mount Nebo on a separate day.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How far is the Dead Sea from Amman?+
About an hour by road. The trip is a comfortable half day including time on the shore.
Is resort entry included?+
The base price covers transport, not resort entry. An upgraded package that includes resort access is offered, so check which one you choose.
Why can you float in the Dead Sea?+
The water is many times saltier than the ocean, so it is far denser and holds you up. Enter slowly and keep your face out of the water.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes with supervision. The water stings eyes and cuts, so keep a close watch and avoid splashing.
What should I bring?+
A swimsuit, towel, sandals, sun protection and a change of clothes. Rinse off with fresh water afterward.
