The hills around Imsouane are covered with argan trees, found naturally almost nowhere else on Earth. Discover how argan oil is made, visit a women’s cooperative, meet the region’s Amazigh culture and learn how to buy authentic products responsibly.
On the drive into Imsouane, you’ll notice the hills dotted with small, twisted, thorny trees. These are argan trees, found naturally almost exclusively in south-west Morocco, and the source of the famous argan oil. A day exploring the argan forests and the Amazigh (Berber) villages inland is a wonderful break from surfing, and a chance to discover the region’s culture.
The argan tree is perfectly adapted to the dry climate of the Souss region, with deep roots that help hold back the desert. The argan forests of this part of Morocco are protected as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. For centuries, local families have used the tree for oil, food, animal fodder and firewood.
Making argan oil is slow, skilled work, traditionally done by women:
It takes a lot of nuts and many hours of work to make a single litre, which explains the price of real argan oil.
Many argan cooperatives along the main road between Essaouira and Agadir are run by local women. Visiting one, you can watch the traditional process, ask questions, taste culinary argan oil with bread and buy products directly. Buying from a cooperative helps support local women and their families.
You may see goats balancing in argan trees, eating the fruit, a famous sight in this region. Be aware that some roadside “goat trees” are set up purely for tourist photos, with animals kept there all day. Enjoy natural sightings from a distance, and think twice before paying for staged photos.
The Amazigh people are Morocco’s original inhabitants, and their language and traditions are still very much alive in the villages around Imsouane. In the hills you’ll see stone and earth houses, terraced fields, weekly souks (markets) and traditional hospitality, often over a glass of mint tea. If you’re invited into a home, take your shoes off, accept the tea and remember a few words: azul means hello in Tamazight. See what language people speak in Imsouane.
A visit to an argan cooperative fits easily into a rest day or a road trip along the coast; see our surf road trip and day trips guide. Combine it with Paradise Valley for a perfect day away from the waves.
Don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our friendly local team knows Imsouane inside out and is happy to help you plan your trip.
+212 613 373 911
hello@imsouaneguide.com
