The Dead Sea (Israel)

The Dead Sea, the lowest point on the surface of the earth at over 400 metres below sea level, is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders, a landlocked salt lake so dense with minerals that swimmers float effortlessly on its surface. On its Israeli shore, at resorts like Ein Bokek, visitors come to bob weightlessly on the water, coat themselves in the mineral-rich black mud prized for its healing properties, and relax at spas beneath the stark, beautiful desert cliffs.

What you actually see

• Floating in the sea - the effortless buoyancy of the dense water.
• The black mud - the mineral mud people coat themselves in.
• The desert setting - the lake beneath the stark Judean cliffs.
• Ein Gedi - the nearby freshwater oasis and nature reserve.

When to go

Year-round, thanks to the warm, low-altitude climate; spring and autumn are the most comfortable, while summer is extremely hot. It combines easily with Masada and the Ein Gedi oasis nearby, and makes a relaxing contrast to Jerusalem.

Honest expectations

The salt stings any cut or sensitive area intensely, so shave well beforehand, keep the water out of your eyes, and never swim face-down or dive. The sea is shrinking dramatically, a serious environmental issue, and sinkholes have closed some old beaches, so use the maintained resort or public beaches. Freshwater showers are essential afterwards.

Nearby

Masada, the Ein Gedi oasis and Jerusalem are within reach.