Kayaking at the Dead Sea is a guided paddle along the northern shore, among sinkholes, salt formations, salt “diamonds” and salt chimneys. Some of these spots can only be reached by water. The tour is run by Dead Sea Kayak, a company led by owner and guide Ofer Shmuelfeld, who has guided kayak groups for 25 years and holds a BCU certification.
The route looks out over the Moab mountains and the fault cliffs. Along the way you stop for natural mud straight from the shore, and you swim in one of the sinkhole pools. No experience is needed. The guide explains the geology and the story of the Dead Sea as you go.
Where it starts, when it runs and how long it takes
The tour starts at Mitzpe Shalem, on the north shore of the Dead Sea. From the road to the beach, a short dirt road of about 1.5 km leads to the meeting point. Arrive 20 minutes before your departure so there is time to get settled and fitted with equipment.
- Departure times: 8:30 in the morning and 13:00 in the afternoon.
- Duration: about 3 hours in total, of which about 2 hours are on the water.
- Season: year-round, by advance booking only.
- Group size: groups of up to 20 people.
Because the tour runs by booking, choose your date first and confirm it with the team before you travel.
Who can join
Anyone from age 8 and up can take part. You do not need any previous paddling experience. The tour suits couples, families, friends and larger groups, and the pace is set for beginners.
Families with children can read more about what to expect in our family guide to kayaking at the Dead Sea. For school, work or friend groups, see the page on kids and groups.
What is included and what to bring
The price covers the kayaks, paddles, life jackets, a guide and a fresh-water shower at the end, which matters after the salt water and mud.
A few practical points for what to bring:
- A swimsuit and a towel, since you will swim in a sinkhole and may want to rinse off.
- A change of clothes for after the shower.
- Sun protection: a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. There is little shade on the water, and the morning departure is the cooler option in warmer months.
- Drinking water, because the Dead Sea area is dry.
Dead Sea water stings in the eyes and on any cuts, so keep your hands away from your face while paddling. Your guide will explain this before you set out.
How to book
Booking is done directly with the team, by phone or WhatsApp, and the activity runs only with advance coordination. Tell them the date you want, which departure (8:30 or 13:00), and how many people are coming, including the ages of any children.
- Phone: 050-8650705
- WhatsApp: 050-5110033
- Email: info@deadseakayak.co.il
For current prices, see the prices and packages page. To see the route before you book, browse the photo gallery, or read about the guide on the about page. The tour has also been featured on Kan 11 in the program “Tiyul Acharei Tzava” (2021) and on YouTube in the video “Spiritual experience: kayaking at the Dead Sea”.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Dead Sea kayak tour start?
The tour starts at Mitzpe Shalem on the north shore of the Dead Sea. A short dirt road of about 1.5 km leads from the road to the beach to the meeting point.
How long does the kayak tour take?
The tour takes about 3 hours in total, with about 2 of those hours on the water. Arrive 20 minutes before your departure time.
What time do the tours leave?
There are two departures, at 8:30 in the morning and at 13:00 in the afternoon. The tour runs year-round by advance booking.
Do I need kayaking experience, and what is the minimum age?
No experience is needed, and anyone from age 8 and up can join. Groups of up to 20 people are possible.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes kayaks, paddles, life jackets, a guide and a fresh-water shower. You only need to bring personal items such as a swimsuit, towel and sun protection.
How do I book a Dead Sea kayak tour?
Contact the team by phone at 050-8650705, by WhatsApp at 050-5110033, or by email at info@deadseakayak.co.il. The activity runs by advance booking.