If you are traveling on the Atlantic coast Morocco, you might see something surprising: goats standing on top of argan trees. This is a real local sight in southwest of the country, especially between Agadir, Taghazout, and Essaouira.
This guide explains where to see them, the best time for photos, and how to visit in a respectful way.
Why do Goats Climb Trees in Morocco?
Argan trees grow in dry areas, and their fruit and leaves are a food source for goats.
When the ground is dry and food is limited, goats climb into the branches to reach what they want. The trees are strong and wide, so goats can balance on them more easily than you would expect.
Where to See Goats on Argan Trees?
You will see goats on trees mainly in the argan areas of southwest Morocco. The best chances are along the coast roads between Agadir and Essaouira.
Agadir to Taghazout
This is one of the easiest areas to include in a short trip. If you stay in Agadir, Taghazout is close, and you can often spot argan trees along the road and in the countryside behind the beaches.
Good base areas:
- Agadir (city center, Marina, or beach zone).
- Taghazout (surf village).
- Aourir (Banana Village).
Taghazout to Tamri
North of Taghazout, the road continues toward Tamri. This stretch is well known for argan trees and occasional goat sightings.
It is also a nice scenic drive, with ocean views and small roadside pull-off points.
Agadir to Essaouira
If you drive from Agadir to Essaouira on the coastal route, you pass through more argan tree countryside.
This is a good option if you want goats-on-trees photos and a full day experience on the coast.
Around Essaouira Countryside
Essaouira itself is a coastal city, but the argan tree landscape is outside the town.
If you do a short countryside loop or stop on the road before arriving, you can sometimes find goats in the argan zones.
Drive Times to Plan your Stop
These are approximate times without long breaks.
From Agadir
- Agadir to Taghazout: about 30–45 minutes.
- Taghazout to Tamri: about 25–35 minutes.
- Agadir to Essaouira: about 3–3.5 hours.
From Marrakech
- Marrakech to Essaouira: about 2.5–3.5 hours
Best Time of Day for Sightings and Photos
Time of day matters more than season.
Best hours:
- Morning: 08:00–11:00
- Late afternoon: 16:00–18:30
Midday is often too bright for photos, and it is less comfortable for roadside stops.
Tips to Spot Goats Safely
Goats are not always on every tree. Some days you see many, other days you see none.
Use these tips:
- Choose a calm road section with good visibility.
- Stop only where it is safe to pull over.
- Look for argan trees with wide branches near fields and hills.
- Scan the tops of the trees, not the ground.
Photo Tips for Better Shots
You can get great photos without getting close.
Try this:
- Use zoom on your phone camera or a zoom lens if you have one.
- Stand off the road and keep space from traffic.
- Avoid flash.
- Be patient for a minute or two, goats move slowly and change position.
Respectful Travel and Animal Welfare
Not every stop is the same. In some places, goats climb naturally. In other places, goats may be encouraged to stay for tourist photos.
To travel responsibly:
- Watch from a distance.
- Do not touch or feed the goats.
- Skip places that feel forced or stressful for animals.
- Choose quieter spots and earlier hours when the scene feels more natural.
Easy Itinerary Ideas to Include Goats on Trees
You do not need a special trip just for this. It fits well into normal coastal routes.
Half-day from Agadir
Brief itinerary: Agadir → Taghazout → Tamri → return to Agadir.
Best for quick photos and a relaxed coastal drive.
Full day: Agadir to Essaouira
Brief itinerary: Agadir → argan tree stops on the way → Essaouira → return
Best if you want goats-on-trees photos plus a city walk in Essaouira.
Day Trip from Marrakech to Essaouira
Brief itineary: Marrakech → stop in argan areas on the way → Essaouira → return.
Best if you want a coastal break while staying in Marrakech.
You want to enjoy the coastal part of Morocco and have a chance to see the goats climbing the trees? Contact Touring In Morocco travel agency.
FAQ
Yes. It is a real sight in southwest Morocco, especially in argan tree areas near Agadir and Essaouira.
It is less common near Marrakech city. The best chances are on the Atlantic side, especially around Essaouira, Agadir, Taghazout, and Tamri.
Yes, if you only stop in safe pull-over areas and stay away from traffic. Avoid stopping on curves or narrow road sections.
Argan oil comes from the kernel inside the argan nut. Today, it is made by collecting and processing the nuts, not by using seeds from animals.
