Places Near Jerusalem

The Dead Sea in Israel was named thus because it cannot sustain any life. It was created when a rift formed on the earth's crust and its waters contain eight times more salt than any ocean does. It is also the lowest point in the world – 400m (1300 ft) below sea level. You can never drown in the Dead Sea – the salinity of the waters makes you float. Be careful that the water does not get into your eyes, and don’t shave prior to bathing in the Sea, because your eyes and skin will burn. The Dead Sea mud is famous for its high concentration of minerals and is known all over the world for its rejuvenation properties. Ein Gedi is a well-known resort on the Dead Sea as well as a kibbutz and a nature reserve. The Dead Sea area is intensely humid in summer and there is a haze of evaporation.

Bus service to this region is infrequent so plan in advance. There is just one main road serving the entire west coast of the Dead Sea and there is a bus service from Jerusalem.