Muddy & Swimming / Floating at the Dead Sea, Israel

Swimming and floating at the Dead Sea in Israel

I've seen photos and videos from friends who have visited the Dead Sea and the opportunity to go there and get muddy and float in the salty waters is something I've wanted to do for a long time.

We especially loved covering ourselves in Mud and then floating with ease in the Dead Sea. Most members from our group seemed to be having the time of their life it's easy to see why this is such a popular tourist attraction for those visiting Israel.

Also known as 'The Sea of Salt' and 'The Sea of Death' this salty lake borders Jordan to the East and Israel and Palestine to the west. Situated 400 meters below sea level it is literally the lowest point of land or earth.

With a high concentration of salt (measured at 33.7 salinity) it is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. The harsh conditions of the water make it impossible for life to exist hence it is called 'The Dead Sea.' While swimming or floating in the Dead Sea it feels a bit like being in greasy oil.

People come to the Dead Sea for a variety of reasons including for health/healing. Mud from the Dead Sea is said to contain many minerals which are considered to have both therapeutic and medicinal properties. Thus, many tourists and visitors cover themselves in mud for a fun/therapeutic experience. The high concentration of salt in the water supposedly helps alienate skin conditions.

Given the hypersalination of the water it is easy for one to float in the Dead Sea regardless of swimming and/or floating abilities. It requires little or know effort and many tourists enjoy taking photos of themselves eating, reading a newspaper or book to demonstrate just how relaxing it is to be floating in the salty waters.