Argan is to the Agadir region what olive oil is to the Mediterranean: part of the landscape, the kitchen and daily life. The argan tree grows mainly in south-western Morocco, and the countryside around Agadir is one of the best places to see it. A visit to an argan cooperative, and perhaps the famous goats standing in the branches, is one of the most popular shore experiences in Agadir.
This guide, written by our local team in Agadir, explains what you will see, how the oil is made and how to buy genuine argan oil on a port day.
The argan tree and its forest
The argan tree is a hardy, thorny tree adapted to the dry climate of the Souss region. Its forests, known as the Arganeraie, have been recognised by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve. The trees provide shade, fodder for animals and, above all, the fruit whose kernels give argan oil.
The argan forest starts just outside the city, so you do not need a long drive to see it. That makes it a good fit for a port day.
Inside an argan cooperative
Many argan cooperatives in the region are run by local women, and a visit usually shows you each step of the traditional process:
- Cracking the nuts: the hard nuts are cracked by hand between two stones to free the small kernels inside.
- Roasting (or not): kernels are lightly roasted for culinary oil, or left raw for cosmetic oil.
- Grinding: the kernels are ground, traditionally with a stone hand mill, into a thick paste.
- Kneading and pressing: the paste is kneaded to release the oil.
You will usually be invited to taste culinary argan oil with bread, and often amlou, the local spread of argan oil, almonds and honey. There is normally a shop where you can buy oil and cosmetics, but buying is never compulsory.
The tree-climbing goats
Goats standing in the branches of argan trees are one of the most photographed sights in southern Morocco. Goats climb the trees to reach the leaves and fruit. At some roadside spots the scene is arranged for visitors, and herders may expect a small tip if you take photos; your guide will explain what is usual.
Our argan tree climbing goats tour combines the goats with a visit to an argan oil cooperative, a short and memorable taste of the countryside. For an earlier start with breakfast, see Crocoparc, argan goats and a traditional breakfast.
Other ways to see argan on a port day
- Half-day city tour: the half-day Agadir city tour includes an argan oil cooperative, along with the Kasbah viewpoint and Souk El Had.
- Paradise Valley: on a long call, our Paradise Valley tour stops at an argan cooperative on the way into the Atlas foothills.
- Souk El Had: you will find argan oil and products at many stalls, but it is harder to know what you are buying there (see our Souk El Had guide for cruise passengers).
All our tours are planned around your ship's published schedule. Your driver waits at the Port of Agadir cruise terminal holding a sign with your name, and tours are paid online in advance by card or PayPal.
How to buy genuine argan oil
- Buy at a cooperative, where you can see the oil being made and ask questions.
- Know which oil you want: culinary oil (from roasted kernels) smells and tastes nutty; cosmetic oil (from raw kernels) has a much milder smell. They are not interchangeable.
- Check the bottle: choose sealed bottles with a clear label showing what the oil is and where it comes from.
- Be wary of very cheap "argan oil" at roadside stalls; it may be blended with other oils.
- Think about the journey home: airline liquid rules apply to hand luggage on your flight home, and your cruise line may have its own rules on liquids brought on board. Check before buying large bottles.
- Bring a little cash in dirhams; some cooperatives take cards, others do not.
For bargaining, money and dress, see what to wear, bring and pay with on a Moroccan shore day. For the port, distances and taxis, see our Agadir cruise port guide.
Want to see the argan forest on your port day? Book the argan tree climbing goats tour or the half-day city tour, browse all Agadir shore excursions, or send us your ship name and date.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see the argan goats on a short port call?
Often, yes: the argan countryside starts just outside the city, and the goats tour is a short outing. Check the tour page against your hours ashore and tell us your ship and date when you book.
Will I be pressured to buy at the cooperative?
There is usually a shop at the end of the visit, but buying is up to you. Your guide can explain the difference between the oils so you can decide calmly.
What is the difference between culinary and cosmetic argan oil?
Culinary oil is made from roasted kernels and has a nutty taste; cosmetic oil is made from raw kernels and is used on skin and hair.
Can I take argan oil home on the plane?
In hand luggage, airline liquid limits apply; larger bottles usually go in checked luggage. Check your airline's and your cruise line's rules before you buy.
