20 Facts About the Dead Sea

No trip to Israel is complete without a visit to the Dead Sea, a true wonder of nature! Before you go, there are a few interesting things you should know about this incredible place.

Essential Facts

  • The Dead Sea sits at 1,388 feet below sea level, making it the lowest point on earth!
  • The high salt concentration means that people can easily float on the sea’s surface. Just lean back and relax on the sea with a book or newspaper, no effort required.

The Dead Sea of Israel - Mazada Tours

  • Due to the high salt content, there are no animals or sea life to be found in sea, and that is why it is called the “Dead” Sea.
  • Even though it’s called a sea, it’s actually a hypersaline lake.
  • The water is almost 10 times saltier than ocean water, so don’t get it in your mouth or eyes!
  • Water flows into the Dead Sea from the Jordan River, but no water ever flows out of the sea.
  • The Dead Sea is disappearing at an alarming rate. In 1930, the sea’s surface was 1050 km2 and now it is around 600km2. Some experts say that unless drastic measures are taken to preserve what is left of this natural wonder, the sea could disappear in our lifetime.

Health Benefits

  • The water of is very high in minerals, and therefore it has become a major centre for health research and treatment.
  • The salt from the sea is very bitter, but it has a variety of skincare benefits. The salt and minerals from the sea can treat psoriasis, cellulite, acne, hives, and many other skin ailments.

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  • The mud that comes from the seabed surrounding the Dead Sea is also great for your skin. For an amazing natural spa experience, spread the mud all over your body and bathe in the sea. You’ll walk out feeling like a baby!
  • The air around the Dead Sea is healthy too! It is low in pollen and allergens, making it the perfect location for those with asthma.

The Dead Sea in History

  • Asphalt naturally rises to the surface of the water, and this asphalt used to be used by ancient Egyptians in the mummification process.

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  • It was one of the world’s first health resorts, built for King Herod the Great.
  • Historically, the Dead Sea was one of Cleopatra’s favorite places. She even ordered resorts and cosmetic factories be built along the shores.
  • The Dead Sea is over 3 million years old!

About the Area

  • The Dead Sea is at the lowest point of the Great Rift Valley, which passes through 20 countries and extends almost 4000 miles.
  • Hungry? On the way to the Dead Sea, you’ll be surrounded by date palms, 618 acres to be exact.

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  • The weather there remains warm all year round, and annual rainfall in the region is less than 50 millimeters.
  • Highway 90 is the world’s lowest road and it runs along the Israeli and West Bank shores of the sea.
  • Since the Dead Sea is located at such a low point, the sun’s UV rays are weaker in this region, making it harder to burn. So float on without worrying too much about those harmful UVs!

You’ve got the facts, now are you ready for the experience? Book our Relaxation day tour, or if you’re pressed for time combine your Dead Sea tour with a visit to Jerusalem or Masada.

Mitzpe Ramon Named First Night Sky Park in Middle East

The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has recently named Mitzpe Ramon the first international night sky park in the Middle East. The IDA works towards the prevention of light pollution and the conservation of night skies around the world. The distinction recognizes the Mitzpe Ramon nature reserve as a hub for the preservation of the environment.

Shaul Goldstein, the General Director of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority acknowledged that “the recognition will enable the preservation of the important values represented by the Ramon Crater in ecological, scientific, cultural and experimental terms for the general public.”

Mitzpe Ramon is the perfect destination for a unique desert experience. Located in Israel’s Negev desert, the Ramon Crater is a geological wonder that is sure to delight visitors of all ages. The crater itself allows for a range of exciting activities, such as hiking the many trails, jeep tours, and wildlife discovery. Of course, the Ramon crater is only the beginning; the desert of the Negev offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration!

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As wondrous as Mitzpe Ramon is during the day, there is nothing that can be compared with experiencing the stillness and absolute silence of the desert at night. Only a short drive away from the centre of Israel, you can trade in the 24/7 hustle and bustle of city life for a tranquil stay in the desert. Grab a blanket, bring your family and friends, and lay back and appreciate the unforgettable phenomenon that is the uninterrupted night sky of the desert.

There are accommodations to suit every type of traveler around Mitzpe Ramon. You can opt for full luxury and comfortably enjoy all that the desert has to offer, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can choose to sleep beneath a canopy of stars and pitch a tent in the desert, Bedouin-style.

Whichever way you choose to explore the Mitzpe Ramon crater, Mazada tours is there to help guide you through the planning stages. We’re happy to create a personalized itinerary that suits your tastes, level of adventure, and travel style. Take the stress out of planning your peaceful desert getaway and contact us to begin building your perfect escape.