THE JORDAN RIFT VALLEY & DEAD SEA
This region is the world’s lowest point, an ecological and spiritual treasure defined by the hyper-saline Dead Sea and the lush, historic Jordan River Valley. It offers incredible therapeutic resorts, ancient biblical sites, and dramatic desert landscapes.
Why Visit The Jordan Rift Valley & Dead Sea?
Therapeutic Waters: Float effortlessly in the hyper-saline Dead Sea and rejuvenate with its mineral-rich muds.
Biblical History: Explore significant ancient and religious sites, including the baptismal site of Jesus (Bethany Beyond the Jordan).
Stunning Scenery: Experience the dramatic contrast between the desert mountains and the sparkling, unique blue of the sea.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (March-May, September-November): This is the ideal time to visit. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for floating, sunbathing, and exploring historical sites without the summer heat.
Deep Off-Season (December-February): You will find the best value on resort accommodation and cooler weather, but it may be too chilly for extended sunbathing and water activities.
Peak Season (June-August): The weather is extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40ºC (104ºF). Take advantage of the resorts’ pools and indoor facilities.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
The Dead Sea Resorts Area
This area along the northeastern shore is lined with luxury and mid-range resorts, offering private beaches, therapeutic spas, and pools. It is the perfect base for enjoying the famous therapeutic mud treatments and floating in the Dead Sea.
Your Smart Tip: The UV index here is significantly lower than elsewhere due to the deep elevation. However, the high temperatures mean sun protection is still vital. Apply sunscreen frequently and wear a hat.
Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al-Maghtas)
Recognized by UNESCO as the authentic site of Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist. It is a place of deep religious significance, featuring remains of churches, caves, and baptismal pools.
Your Smart Tip: To truly appreciate the tranquility and spiritual atmosphere of the site, plan to visit early in the morning. The light is better for photos, and it will be significantly cooler.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is arid and hot. The Jordan Valley is known for being consistently warmer than the rest of Jordan, especially in winter. Summers are intensely hot with little to no rain, while winters are mild.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Language: The official language is Arabic. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels. It is polite to learn a few basic Arabic phrases like Ahlan (Hello) and Shukran (Thank you).
Dress Code: While resort wear is acceptable around the pools and private beaches, exercise modesty in public areas and towns. Cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites like the Baptism Site.
The Sabbath: Be aware that some businesses near religious sites, particularly on the western side of the Dead Sea (Israel/West Bank), may observe the Jewish Sabbath (Friday sunset to Saturday sunset). However, Jordanian businesses operate normally.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels (less common, $15–$30 in nearby towns), mid-range hotels ($60–$100), resort/luxury ($120+). Prices are significantly higher for resorts directly on the Dead Sea.
Food: Fixed-price lunch/dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($15–$30 per person), street food/falafel ($3–$6), fine dining ($50+).
Transport: Taxi from Amman ($50–$80 one-way), private car rental ($35–$60/day).
Activities: Dead Sea day pass ($20–$50), Baptism Site entry ($17), Mujib trail entry ($30).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $70–$100 (hostels, local transport, street food).
- Mid-range: $120–$180 (mid-range hotels/B&Bs, good restaurants, paid attractions).
- Luxury: $250+ (resort stays, gourmet meals, private transfers).
Getting Around
By Car: A rental car is the most flexible and highly recommended way to explore the Rift Valley. The roads are generally well-maintained.
By Taxi/Private Driver: Taxis are available, but they are expensive for long distances. Negotiate the price before starting the journey. Private drivers can be hired for full-day excursions.
By JETT Bus: While limited, the JETT bus company offers scheduled services from Amman to major Dead Sea resorts.
Must-Try Food
Mansaf: Jordan’s national dish—lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce (jameed) and served over rice.
Zarb: Meat (often lamb or chicken) slow-cooked in a sealed underground oven.
Magluba (Maqlouba): (Pronunciation: Mah-gloo-bah) Translated as “upside down,” this is a flavorful dish of meat, rice, and fried vegetables served in a cake-like form.
Shorbat Adas: A creamy lentil soup, a popular and comforting staple.
Hummus and Moutabal/Baba Ghanoush: Essential dips served with freshly baked khobz (flatbread).
Foul (Fuul): Cooked and seasoned fava beans, often eaten for breakfast.
Falafel: Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas and spices.
Kofta: Seasoned ground meat mixed with parsley and onions, often baked in a tomato or tahini sauce.
Kunafeh (Knafeh): (Pronunciation: Koo-nah-feh) A hot dessert made of thin pastry, soaked in syrup, and layered with sweet cheese.
Baklava: Layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
Must-Try Drinks
Mint Tea: Served hot, this sweet, refreshing black tea infused with fresh mint is offered as a sign of hospitality.
Turkish/Arabic Coffee: Strong, dark, and often flavored with cardamom.
Lemon with Mint: A refreshing, non-alcoholic summer drink.
Fresh Juice: Mango, orange, or seasonal fruit juices are widely available.
Arak: Anise-flavored alcoholic spirit that turns milky-white when water and ice are added. It is traditionally served with mezze (appetizers).
Jordanian Wines: Local wineries, particularly those from the hills around Madaba, produce surprisingly good reds and whites.
Jordanian Beer: Brands like Carakale or Petra.