Essaouira Argan Oil Workshop + Argan Forest Excursion

Discover the Argan Oil of Morocco

What is Argan Oil ?

Argan oil is a precious, golden oil that has been produced in Morocco for centuries. This rare and ancient craft is an integral part of Morocco's cultural heritage. The oil is extracted from the seeds of the argan tree (

Argania spinosa

), a tree native to Morocco. Every year, during the harvest season (June to August), Berber women carefully collect the seeds by hand before processing them into this valuable oil. Depending on the extraction method, argan oil is used in cosmetics, culinary dishes (as a key ingredient in traditional Moroccan breakfasts or snacks), or even as a natural remedy in traditional medicine. Renowned for its benefits, argan oil is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It nourishes and revitalizes the skin, treating conditions like eczema, dryness, and signs of aging. Additionally, it is believed to promote cardiovascular health and may even help in cancer prevention.

Where is Argan Oil Made in Morocco ?

The production of argan oil is concentrated in the Essaouira region, particularly in the Souss Valley and along the coast between Essaouira and Agadir. Essaouira is home to one of the world’s only argan forests, a UNESCO-designated Argan Biosphere Reserve. These slow-growing trees have adapted over centuries to the arid climate of the region, thriving in the harsh conditions of this unique ecosystem.

Your Argan Oil Experience

Meet a Local Argan Producer & Berber Women at a Cooperative

Our local producer, renowned since years for his high-quality Argan oil in Essaouira, will guide you through your experience.

Experience Options, Details & Pricing

This is a private experience - the moment will be reserved exclusively for you.

1. VISIT : The Secrets of Argan Oil

Step into a charming, traditional shop in Essaouira’s Medina that feels like an old apothecary’s den. Here, the local producer will introduce you to the secrets of Argan oil production—from seed harvesting to oil extraction—and its role in Moroccan daily life.

• Duration: 30 minutes
• Location: Essaouira’s Old Medina
• Price: €15 per person

2. HANDS-ON ARGAN OIL WORKSHOP : Make Argan Oil by Yourself

Take your experience to the next level by creating Argan oil yourself! Learn how Argan seeds are ground using ancestral stone mill techniques to form a paste, which is then processed into oil. Try your hand at making Morocco’s “liquid gold” and connect with one of the country’s most cherished traditions. Meet the Berber women from the cooperative who have mastered this craft, passing down their knowledge through generations.

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Location: Essaouira’s Old Medina
• Prices: 1 person: €70 per person 2 people: €55 per person 3 people: €45 per person 4 people: €40 per person 5 people: €35 per person 6 people: €30 per person

3. EXTENDED EXPERIENCE: Argan Forest Excursion + Argan Oil Workshop

Combine a visit to the

Argan forest

with a hands-on workshop! Discover the magnificent

Argan trees

in their natural environment, visit a

Berber women’s cooperative

, and learn the entire process from tree to oil.

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours (2-hour trip in the rural area + workshop)
• Location: Argan Forest (rural area) + Essaouira’s Old Medina
• Included: Private round-trip transport from Essaouira
• Prices: 1 person: €100 per person 2 people: €75 per person 3 people: €65 per person 4 people: €60 per person 5 people: €55 per person 6 people: €50 per person

Choose Your Experience

• Visit: Learn everything about the history and production of argan oil.
• Hands-On Workshop: Take part in a traditional workshop and make your own argan oil.
• Extended Experience: Explore the argan forest, meet Berber women at a cooperative, and enjoy a hands-on workshop.

Why Book This Experience?

1. Cultural Immersion: Discover Morocco’s rich heritage and meet locals who are preserving its practices.
2. Learn from Experts: Gain insights from an experienced Argan oil producer and Berber women.
3. Sustainability: Support local communities and cooperatives working to preserve Morocco’s Argan ecosystem.
4. Unique Memories: Try your hand at making Argan oil!