When most travelers think of Morocco, they envision colorful souks, lively nights in Marrakesh, and vast stretches of the Sahara. One of the most surprising images from southwest Morocco is that of goats climbing argan trees. These unique tree-climbing goats have piqued the interest of tourists, scientists, and photographers. Their connection to argan oil, often called the miracle oil of Morocco, is even more intriguing.
In this article, we will examine why Moroccan goats climb trees, the cultural and ecological significance of argan trees, and the global passion for Moroccan argan oil. We will also answer common questions, such as: Why Goats on Argan Trees in Morocco? How do goats scale sheer cliffs? What can we learn from them about balance and survival?
Why Goats on Argan Trees in Morocco?
One of the most frequent questions from visitors is: “Why do goats climb trees in Morocco?” The answer is simple: food. The argan tree, which mostly grows in southwest Morocco between Marrakech and Essaouira, produces small, olive-like fruits. These fruits contain a nut that is rich in oil. While the outer layer is bitter to humans, Moroccan goats enjoy eating the argan fruit.
Since the trees are often tall and spaced out in the semi-desert environment, goats have learned to climb trees, sometimes reaching heights of up to 10 meters, to access the fruit. This remarkable behavior makes them look like ornaments hanging from the branches — a truly surreal sight.
However, this isn’t just a spectacle for tourists. The goats play an important role in the argan oil production process. After eating the fruit, they cannot digest the hard nut inside. Traditionally, farmers collect the nuts that are spit out or excreted, crack them open, and extract the oil.
What Is the Argan Oil of Morocco?
Argan oil, scientifically known as Argania Spinosa oil, comes from the kernels of the argan fruit. For centuries, Berber women in Morocco have used it for cooking, skincare, and medicine. Today, it’s a global beauty trend found in everything from hair serums to face creams.
So, why is argan oil called the miracle oil of Morocco? The oil is full of vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, making it:
– Highly moisturizing for dry skin
– Effective at reducing wrinkles and fine lines
– Helpful for treating acne and scars
– Nourishing for hair, adding shine and reducing frizz
– Strengthening for nails and cuticles
From luxury skincare to kitchen recipes, Moroccan argan oil has become one of the country’s most well-known exports.
How to Tell If Argan Oil Is 100% Real
With its rising popularity, fake or diluted products are common. To ensure you are buying pure Moroccan argan oil, keep these tips in mind:
– It should be sold in dark glass bottles, not clear plastic.
– The texture should be smooth and slightly thick, not watery.
– The scent should be light and nutty (cosmetic argan oil is usually lightly filtered).
– The label should say “100% Pure Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil).”
If you’re ever in Morocco, the best place to buy is directly from women’s cooperatives in Essaouira or Agadir, where you can see the oil being extracted by hand.
Morocco Goats: Natural Rock Climbers
Besides climbing argan trees, the goats of Morocco are also skilled rock climbers. You might wonder: How do goats climb sheer cliffs without slipping? Their secret lies in their specialized hooves. The hard outer hoof grips rough surfaces, while the soft inner pads provide traction, similar to climbing shoes.
This ability allows mountain goats worldwide to scale vertical cliffs. Interestingly, goats and humans share a climbing technique: both tend to use diagonal paths when climbing. This method makes climbing less tiring and more stable.
Argan Oil and Beauty: What Does Moroccan Argan Oil Do?
Another common question is: What does Moroccan argan oil do for skin and hair? The answer depends on how you use it:
– For skin: It moisturizes, reduces stretch marks, soothes burns, heals bruises, and helps acne-prone skin.
– For hair: It prevents split ends, adds shine, repairs damage from styling, and promotes growth. Many ask: Is argan oil good for oily skin? Yes, it balances natural oil production without blocking pores.
– For nails: It strengthens brittle nails and hydrates cuticles.
– For men: Some wonder if argan oil helps with beard growth. Yes, it softens facial hair and promotes healthy skin underneath.
This is why many shampoos and face oils from Morocco feature “with Argan Oil” on their labels.
Goats, Argan Fruit, and the Ecosystem
The argan tree isn’t just about oil. It’s a UNESCO-protected biosphere because it stops desertification, provides shade for crops, and supports biodiversity.
However, goat overgrazing can harm young argan trees. Farmers now balance tradition with sustainability by limiting the number of goats allowed to climb. This ensures the survival of the argan forest, sometimes referred to as the “green belt” of Morocco.
Fun Questions About Goats and Moroccan Culture
Why don’t goats produce wool like sheep? Unlike sheep, goats produce hair that is smoother and less crimped. Some breeds produce cashmere or mohair instead.
Can goats eat apples? Yes, they love fruits, but too many can upset their digestion.
What products come from goats? Cheese, milk, leather, and even traditional stools made from Moroccan camel and goat leather.
Why is goat cheese white? Goats convert carotene in plants into vitamin A, unlike cows, whose milk stays yellowish.
Visiting Morocco: Where to See the Goats on Argan Trees
If you want to see the famous tree-climbing goats of Morocco, the best area is between Marrakech and Essaouira. Along the road, especially near Agadir, you’ll spot herds balancing gracefully on argan branches.
Some tourist stops are staged, but the sight remains remarkable. For the most authentic experience, visit rural villages where goats naturally climb during the fruiting season from May to August.
Final Thoughts: Goats, Trees, and the Miracle of Morocco
The image of Moroccan goats climbing trees may seem surreal, but it tells a story of survival, tradition, and innovation. From their love for the argan fruit to their role in producing the world’s most valued oil, goats are part of Morocco’s natural and cultural identity.
Meanwhile, argan oil from Morocco continues to impress the world as a symbol of health, beauty, and heritage. Next time you use argan shampoo or lotion, remember that the journey of that golden oil might have begun with a playful goat balancing high in an argan tree in Morocco.