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Dead Sea Basin

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Landmark
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Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)

Weather…

The Dead Sea Basin is a world-renowned geographical wonder, marking the lowest elevation on the Earth's land surface at approximately 430 meters below sea level. Located within the Jordan Rift Valley, this endorheic basin is famous for its hyper-saline waters, with a salt concentration of around 33%, nearly ten times saltier than the ocean. This extreme density allows bathers to float effortlessly on the surface, while the high mineral content of the water and mud is sought after for its therapeutic properties. The western shore is defined by dramatic limestone cliffs and stark desert landscapes that offer a striking contrast to the deep blue of the water. Geologically, the basin is a key part of the Great Rift Valley system and continues to be a site of intense scientific study. Beyond its physical attributes, the Dead Sea Basin has been a center of human history and wellness for millennia, drawing visitors from across the globe to experience its unique environment and natural healing powers.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C121417212629303028251914
Rain mm474223115001162033

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Dead Sea Basin is a free natural landscape and can be visited at any time. Access to certain beaches or viewpoints may be controlled.
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Typical hours
As an open area, there are no opening hours. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense heat.
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Photography
Photography is allowed everywhere, and the surreal landscape features fantastic subjects. Watch for reflections and the unique salt formations.
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Time needed
Allow at least two to three hours to explore the shores and enjoy a dip in the salty water. A full day is good to also visit the surrounding canyons.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with a trip to the Jericho oasis or the Qumran caves. The Wadi Qelt nature reserve is also not far.
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Getting there
The Dead Sea is reachable by car on good roads from Jerusalem or Jericho. There are public buses that go to the beaches.
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Insider tip
Avoid entering the water with open wounds or after shaving, as the salt stings severely. Rinse off with fresh water after bathing.

Geography

Coordinates
31.50000, 35.48000

Facts

  • Water level is approx. 430 meters below sea level
  • Maximum basin depth reaches about 300 meters
  • Water salinity is approximately 34 percent
  • Contains significant deposits of potash and magnesium
  • Includes the Lisan Peninsula on the eastern side
  • Receding water levels lead to the formation of sinkholes

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dead SeaDead Sea3 km · SExplore →
Wadi Mujib (River)Wadi Mujib (River)10 km · NExplore →
Ein Gedi Nature ReserveEin Gedi Nature Reserve11 km · SExplore →
Mujib Biosphere ReserveMujib Biosphere Reserve15 km · NExplore →
MachaerusMachaerus17 km · NExplore →
Ma'in Hot SpringsMa'in Hot Springs18 km · NEExplore →
Ein FeshkhaEin Feshkha19 km · EExplore →
Jabal AtaruzJabal Ataruz19 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to swim in the Dead Sea?
Yes, but do not dive, as the salt stings the eyes badly.
Are there freshwater showers on the beach?
Usually available at public and private beaches.
What is the best season for a visit?
Autumn, winter, or spring, as summer is extremely hot.
Is the ground at the shore slippery?
Yes, often there are salt deposits, so exercise caution.
What is the maximum time to swim?
Stay in the water for no more than 15-20 minutes at a time.
Dead Sea Basin: where is it located?
Dead Sea Basin is located in Palestinian Territories.
Dead Sea Basin: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Dead Sea Basin: why is it worth visiting?
The Dead Sea Basin is a world-renowned geographical wonder, marking the lowest elevation on the Earth's land surface at approximately 430 meters below sea level.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Asia
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Nearby cities

East Jerusalem — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
East Jerusalem
East Jerusalem includes the Old City and major religious sites such as the Dome of the Rock.
Hebron Old City — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Hebron Old City
Hebron's Old City is characterized by narrow alleys and Mamluk architecture.
Hebron — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Hebron
Hebron is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, famous for the Cave of the Patriarchs.
Ramallah — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Ramallah
Ramallah is the political and economic administrative center of the West Bank.
Yatta — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Yatta
Yatta is in the southern Hebron Governorate and is a hub for livestock and agriculture.
Al-Bireh — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Bireh
Al-Bireh is adjacent to Ramallah, forming a continuous urban area.
Surif — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Surif
Surif is located in the northwestern Hebron Governorate near the Green Line.
Al-Ram — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Ram
Al-Ram is located north of Jerusalem and is a busy commercial and residential area.
Halhul — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Halhul
Halhul is located north of Hebron on one of the highest points in the West Bank.
Dura — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Dura
Dura is located in the Hebron Governorate and is a key regional center.
Jericho — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Jericho
Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located deep below sea level.
Bani Na'im — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Bani Na'im
Bani Na'im is located east of Hebron and is known as the 'City of Martyrs'.
As-Samu — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
As-Samu
As-Samu is the southernmost town in the Hebron Governorate.
Idhna — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Idhna
Idhna is located west of Hebron near the Green Line.
Sa'ir — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Sa'ir
Sa'ir is located northeast of Hebron in a deep valley.

History & landmarks

Old City of Hebron — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Old City of Hebron
The Old City of Hebron is a labyrinth of narrow streets and Mamluk architecture centered around the Ibrahimi Mosque.
Old City of Ramallah — Dead Sea Basin (Palestinian Territories)
Old City of Ramallah
The historical center of Ramallah preserves many Ottoman-era stone houses and serves as a vibrant cultural hub.