Morocco’s Tree-Climbing Goats: Nature’s Most Unexpected Acrobats

Yes, it’s true. Goats in Morocco really do climb trees. And no, you’re not hallucinating from heatstroke in the desert or one too many mint teas. These gravity-defying goats are very much real, and they’ve become one of the country’s most photographed—and, let’s be honest, baffling—sights.

But why are there goats in trees in Morocco? Is it natural behaviour or a clever tourist trap? Where can you see them, and should you even go? In this guide, we’ll climb into the branches of the topic—figuratively, of course—to bring you everything you never knew you needed to know about goats and argan trees.

Are the Tree-Climbing Goats of Morocco Real?

Let’s clear this up straight away. Yes, the goats are absolutely real, and yes, they genuinely climb trees. Not only that—they do it with an alarming level of confidence and agility. It’s not just one or two goats on a low branch, either. Sometimes entire herds are perched high in the twisting limbs of Morocco’s iconic argan trees, like bearded, bleating Christmas decorations.

And they’re not doing it just for fun. Well, mostly not.

Why Do Goats Climb Trees in Morocco?

The Argan Nut Obsession

Here’s the simple answer: goats in Morocco climb trees to eat argan nuts. The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is native to the Souss Valley in southwestern Morocco, and its fruit contains a small nut that goats apparently find irresistible.

Once the goats have stripped the lower branches clean, the only option is to go higher. Their narrow hooves and excellent balance make them surprisingly adept at scrambling up trunks and along narrow limbs, all in pursuit of a tasty snack.

Nature’s Unintended Collaborators

There’s a rather odd ecological side effect to this goat behaviour. After munching on the fruit, the goats excrete the argan nuts (yes, we’re going there), which are then collected by local people, cracked open, and used to produce argan oil—Morocco’s “liquid gold.” Whether or not this process is used in all oil production is debatable, but the image persists.

If you’re wondering, is Moroccan argan oil made from goat droppings?, the answer is… sometimes. You’re welcome.

Where Can You See Goats in Trees in Morocco?

The Best Spot: Between Essaouira and Agadir

If you’re keen to witness these caprine acrobats in action, the best place to see goats in trees is along the R207 road between Essaouira and Agadir. This stretch of road cuts through prime argan country and has become something of a hotspot for goat-viewing.

You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see a small crowd gathered around a tree full of goats—or when someone waves you over, offering a chance to snap your own “goat in a tree” photo for a small tip.

Are There Tree-Climbing Goats Near Marrakech?

This is a frequently searched question—and a fair one, since Marrakech is the most visited city in Morocco. The short answer? Not really. The goats and their beloved argan trees are native to the southwest, so you won’t find tree goats near Marrakech. You’d need to head towards Essaouira or Agadir, both of which make excellent day trips or overnight stays.

The Ethics of Goat-Tree Tourism

Wild Behaviour or Staged Spectacle?

Now for the tricky bit. While the tree-climbing behaviour is natural in origin, not all goat-tree sightings are as wholesome as they appear. In recent years, some farmers have taken to placing goats in trees deliberately to attract tourists. In these staged settings, goats are tied to branches or left in the trees for long hours, often in the heat, just to provide photo ops.

So when you see that idyllic goat-in-tree tableau, there’s a decent chance it’s more performance art than pastoral scene.

What Can You Do as a Traveller?

If you care about responsible tourism—and let’s assume you do—then a bit of awareness goes a long way.

• Observe from a distance. Don’t pay to hold or pose with the goats.
• Avoid tours that treat goats like props. Opt for experiences that prioritise animal welfare.
• Ask your guide questions. If they’re reputable, they’ll appreciate your interest.

Remember: it’s fine to admire the goats, but it’s also fine to walk away if it feels exploitative.

Tree-Climbing Goats and Moroccan Culture

Goats in trees aren’t just internet gold—they’re also part of a broader cultural and ecological story. In Morocco, goats have long been central to rural life, especially in the arid regions where herding and agriculture are interwoven.

The argan tree, meanwhile, is a national treasure. It’s drought-resistant, crucial to local ecosystems, and at the heart of the argan oil cooperatives run by Berber women, which empower communities and promote sustainable land use.

So when you see goats in argan trees, you’re seeing a kind of living intersection of economy, ecology, and culture—however surreal it may appear.

When Is the Best Time to See Tree-Climbing Goats?

Goats are most likely to be up in the trees between May and September, when the argan fruit ripens. During this time, they’ll do their balancing act for hours a day, especially in the cooler mornings and late afternoons.

That said, thanks to a few entrepreneurial farmers, there are goats in trees almost year-round—though again, whether that’s natural or not is another story.

Instagram vs. Reality: Are the Goats Worth the Hype?

If your social media is anything like everyone else’s, you’ve probably seen the goats in trees and thought, surely that’s Photoshop. But they’re real, and seeing them in person is… well, kind of magical.

Just don’t expect a Disney moment. There might be tourists. There might be a farmer asking for 10 dirhams. One of the goats might sneeze on you. It’s all part of the charm.

But surrealism aside, the goats are a gateway into something deeper—a glimpse into rural Moroccan life, into a symbiosis between animal and environment, and into the kind of sustainable practices that other countries could frankly learn from.

Should You Go?

So, should you make the goat pilgrimage? Honestly—yes, if you’re already heading that way. It’s one of those travel oddities that turns into a surprisingly rich story, especially if you take the time to learn about the landscape and people behind the photos.

Just go with open eyes, a bit of scepticism, and an appreciation for the absurd. Because if Morocco teaches you anything, it’s that things are never quite what they seem… especially when it comes to goats.