Choose your starting point. You could begin your trip on the Israeli Dead Sea coast and take advantage of your proximity to such sites as the Masada mountain fortress, the ruins of ancient Jericho or Ein Gedi National Park. Alternatively, you could start on the Jordanian Dead Sea coast, affording the chance to view the Christian mosaics of Madaba, the biblical site of Mount Nebo or the stunning beauty of Wadi Mujib.
Obtain the necessary visas. Unless you are a citizen of one of the 65 countries exempted of visa requirements by Israel (including citizens of European countries, the United States, Australia and New Zealand), you will need a visa to enter Israel. Israel visas must be obtained in advance of travel at an Israeli consular office. In Jordan, visas are required by all foreign visitors. They cost $14 U.S. and may be obtained at the airport or at most border posts (with the exception of the King Hussein Bridge crossing).
Cross the border at the Allenby/Hussein Bridge. This border crossing in the southern Jordan Valley is closest to the Dead Sea but has the most restrictions. Visas for either country must be obtained in advance (if visas are required by citizens of your country). Vehicles, whether public or private, are not permitted to cross the Allenby/Hussein Bridge.
Cross at the Sheikh Hussein/North Border crossing. This post, about 60 miles north of the Dead Sea at Lake Tiberias (Galilee), is open 24 hours a day throughout the year.
Cross at the Wadi Araba Crossing/South Border. This post is farthest from the Dead Sea, about 200 miles away, and therefore entails the longest detour. This post has restricted operating hours, closes for holidays and does not grant visas without previous permits to visitors of certain nationalities.
