One of the most amazing bodies of water on our planet is the Dead Sea. The name sounds ominous, but it’s not as frightening as it seems. Although the water in this sea, located in the heart of the desert, can indeed be lethal. But let’s go step by step.
1. It’s All About the Composition
The high salt concentration in the water here exceeds all imaginable norms—thirty percent. Such levels are found nowhere else. By comparison, the Mediterranean Sea has only about three percent salt content. The upside is that it’s nearly impossible to drown in this water. However, there’s a downside. For the human body, such a high concentration of minerals and salt is a real poison.
So, what now? Should you avoid entering the water altogether? No, of course not, but it’s vital to follow a few essential rules.
2. How to Bathe in the Dead Sea Safely
To enjoy the unique water and not harm yourself, it’s crucial to follow several key rules. Then, your time at the Dead Sea can turn into a delightful experience, and your health will even benefit. While this “poisonous” water shouldn’t enter your body, it’s a real elixir for the skin.
The Dead Sea is the only body of water where swimming on your stomach is strictly forbidden. Even if you’re unaware of this rule, you’ll find it nearly impossible to swim traditionally due to the high salt content, which will buoy your body up. This characteristic is a great help for those who can’t swim at all. You can easily lie on your back and even read a book. Nothing will happen.
Diving, submerging, and performing acrobatics are prohibited here. Saltwater can cause severe irritation (burning) if it gets into your eyes or mouth, leading to intense poisoning.
There are specific areas with restricted swimming zones, such as the beach called Kalia. In these places, the water is super-concentrated with additives, making it a highly concentrated salt solution with even higher salt and mineral content than elsewhere. Entering these areas can lead to severe poisoning.
You shouldn’t stay in the Dead Sea for more than three continuous hours. During this period, it’s crucial to drink plenty of water. The beach and water body are located in a desert with its unique climate—extremely hot and very low humidity.
Always wear shoes when going to the beach. This is due to the presence of salt crystals on the shore, formed where the water touches. Walking barefoot on them can cause injuries, and salt can get into the wounds.
If water touches your lips, nothing will happen, as the salt won’t penetrate your body. The main thing is to keep your mouth closed while bathing.
3. Why Enter the Dead Sea Backwards
The reason is clear. It’s to prevent the highly concentrated salt solution, which this water is, from entering your body through your mouth, nose, or eyes. You won’t drown, ensuring your absolute safety.