Adventures Below Sea Level: A Dead Sea Highway Road Trip

One of the best ways to explore the country of Jordan is by taking a road trip along the Dead Sea. On the winding road that runs along the coastline, you can watch the dramatic scenery change from arid deserts and rocky cliffs to serene turquoise-blue sea.

With detours to pristine beaches, historic hot springs and nature preserves, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy Jordan’s natural wonders along the way.

The Dead Sea Highway (Highway 65) runs north–south in Jordan, starting near Irbid in the north, passing through the Jordan Valley and along the Dead Sea, and ending in Aqaba.

You can cover the 175 miles (273 kilometers) from the north end of the Dead Sea to Aqaba in 3.5 hours without stopping, but to truly relax and discover, make a whole day of it, or even spread out your trip over a few days.

Driving in Jordan is relatively easy. Most roads are well maintained, and there is not much traffic or many detours, so it’s hard to get lost. Expect police checkpoints tracking speed limits, however.

Here are some can’t-miss stops along the highway, and as always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.

The Dead Sea

Start your drive from the capital of Amman to the Dead Sea, which takes about an hour. The Dead Sea is one of the most unique places in the world. It’s the lowest point on Earth at 1,414 feet (431 meters) below sea level.

The high salinity level allows extra buoyancy, which makes floating a wonderful experience of weightlessness and relaxation. The mud from the sea is also said to have healing powers that can resolve many health issues, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and arthritis.

While driving, you can see the water from practically everywhere, but to get close, you will need to find a spot that is not too steep or rocky and is safe for bathing (some parts of the Dead Sea shore are restricted for safety reasons).

You’ll also find an epic perch dining at Il Terrazzo restaurant at the Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa, which overlooks the shores of the sea.

Tranquil Beaches

Continue your below-sea-level drive to one of the beaches along the Dead Sea. One of the most popular and accessible public beaches with facilities is Amman Beach. You can use showers, sun umbrellas and lockers for a reasonable fee and access nearby restaurants and souvenir shops.

You can also purchase a day pass at one of the resort-owned private beaches, which are the most well-maintained and include a wide range of facilities, such as the Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa.

The luxurious beachfront property has one of the country’s best spas, which has its own Dead Sea salt pool. Make sure to try one of their signature treatments, like an exfoliating body scrub or mud wrap made with Dead Sea minerals.

Wear modest swimwear and bring a cover-up. And due to the hypersalinity, it is advisable to limit your time in the water to 10 or 15 minutes and shower right after.

Idyllic Hot Springs

Pamper yourself in the therapeutic waters of Ma’in Hot Springs, or Hammamat Ma’in, about 20 minutes south of Amman Beach and 866 feet (264 meters) below sea level.

Unwind in the natural thermal pools and feel the healing trickles under the series of waterfalls in this stunning desert oasis, which locals have been enjoying for thousands of years.

Rich in potassium, magnesium and calcium, the water is said to benefit the nervous system, muscle relaxation, skin issues and blood circulation, making it a popular site for medical tourism.

Gorgeous Vistas

From the hot springs, follow the winding road south along the sea, witnessing the sharp salt formations, and turn toward the mountains for a cliffside view of the Dead Sea.

You can enjoy a spectacular sunset from the viewing platform of the Panorama Dead Sea Complex, as well as learn about the ecology of the region at the complex’s museum, and shop for locally produced beauty products, handmade crafts and jewelry at the gift shop.

A half-hour south of the Panorama Complex, you can hike along the canyon trails at the Mujib Biosphere Reserve. At 1,365 feet (416 meters) below sea level, it’s the lowest nature reserve on Earth and home to 300 species of plants.

End your trip back at the Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa with a nightcap at Fishing Club Beach Bar and appreciate the picturesque views over the Jordan Valley.