Why is it called the Dead Sea?

The sea is called dead because its high salinity means no macroscopic aquatic organisms such as fish or water plants can live in it, though minuscule quantities of bacteria and microbial fungi are present.



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No matter what time of year you choose to visit the Dead Sea, it's important to remember that swimming in its waters can be dangerous due to its high salt content and strong currents. Visitors must take safety precautions, such as wearing a life jacket or using a floatation device when swimming in these waters.

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Ages ago, a saltwater lagoon was connected to the Mediterranean Sea. The movement of the African and Arabian tectonic plates shifted the land between the Dead Sea and the Mediterranean rose. Consequently, this cut-off the ocean water supply for the Dead Sea, thus leaving it landlocked.

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Dozens of giant craters spewing fresh water and brimming with bacteria have been found at the otherwise barren bottom of the Dead Sea, new research shows.

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Whilst boats can easily float in the Dead Sea like a human body, the water's buoyancy makes it impossible for boats to effectively move through the lake.

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Fact: You can – and you should. Pads might not be the best option, since they'll absorb water till they're soaked, and could get weighed down or fall out. Plus, they might be visible through your bathing suit. On the other hand, tampons are convenient and safe to use in water.

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Don't Splash or Dive The water is so salty that literally nothing can survive in it. That's why it's called the Dead Sea. So you want to be sure to avoid the water getting in your eyes or nose at all costs.

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Don't stay in the Dead Sea longer than 10-15 minutes. The salt water irritates your skin, and after 15 minutes it can start to sting. Remember that the Dead Sea is about 10 times saltier than typical oceans and seas. On that note – Don't splash!

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Although whoever enters the water immediately floats, you should keep in mind that it is still possible to drown in the Dead Sea. This happens when swimmers get caught in strong winds, flip over and swallowing the salty water. Always make sure to only enter proclaimed beaches, in the presence of a lifeguard.

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Entering the Dead Sea: Be extremely careful not to get the water in your eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. If you do, have a friend lead you to the fresh water showers commonplace at public beaches. Do not put your head underwater; floating on your back is preferable in order to avoid this.

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You can't walk on the water of the Dead Sea. The water is rich in salt and minerals, so it has a silky, thick consistency that will keep you afloat if you're swimming. But the buoyancy is not enough to walk on. You can, however, walk on large slabs of solid salt that form in the water, and along the shore.

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Go swimming in designated areas only The reason you should swim in a designated area is so that there are life guards on duty. On the plus side, there are no sharks or other nasties to worry about. Nothing lives in the Dead Sea except for small micro organisms.

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Facts you do not know about the Dead Sea... one of the strangest natural wonders in the world
  • The Dead Sea is one of the most saline bodies of water on earth. ...
  • The largest free spa on earth. ...
  • Experience floating easily on the waters of the Dead Sea. ...
  • The lowest point on earth. ...
  • The lowest river in the world flows into it.


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After swimming in the Dead Sea, my advice would be to rinse off your body immediately! Trust me; you don't want to stay with that salt on your body until you get to shower later in the day. Otherwise, you will be scratching all day long!

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Top tips for taking a Dead Sea dip - Do not wear jewellery – almost everything except 24-carat gold will instantly tarnish (though it can be cleaned). - Wear flip-flops to protect your feet from the scorching sand (and, in some places, sharp stones).

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What happens if you swim in the Dead Sea for too long? If you stay in the Dead Sea for too long, the high salt concentration may dry out and irritate your skin, and if ingested, can cause discomfort.

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Both at the Ein Gedi baech and the Ein Bokek beaches there are public showers and changing rooms. The showers are out in the open (YOU HAVE TO SHOWER WHEN YOU GET OUT OF THE DEAD SEA) and for a small fee you can use the public changing rooms.

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Facts you do not know about the Dead Sea... one of the strangest natural wonders in the world
  • The Dead Sea is one of the most saline bodies of water on earth. ...
  • The largest free spa on earth. ...
  • The use of Dead Sea water for healing since ancient times. ...
  • Experience floating easily on the waters of the Dead Sea.


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