Imagine starting the Yagour Plateau Trek, an 8-day adventure through the High Atlas Mountains with MarocTrik.
You’ll see ancient rock carvings and enjoy the hospitality of the Berber people.
You’ll walk through wide landscapes, green valleys, and amazing rock formations, with each step showing you more of Morocco’s history.
This trek stands out because it connects the past and present in a special way. Want to know about the unique experiences you might have? Let’s talk more about it.
Overview of Yagour Plateau and Rock Engravings of the Atlas
The Yagour Plateau is often overlooked by travelers, but it offers a unique mix of natural beauty and historical importance, shown by its ancient rock engravings.
Located in the High Atlas Mountains, the plateau takes you back to Morocco’s prehistoric times.
When you start the Yagour Plateau trek, you’ll see amazing rock engravings that are thousands of years old, giving you a look into the lives of early people.
The Yagour Plateau isn’t just about history, its natural beauty is also stunning. You’ll be surrounded by wide landscapes, green valleys, and rough terrains.
The plateau is also home to Berber communities, who’ve kept their traditional way of life for hundreds of years.
This trek lets you experience their culture and meet local shepherds and villagers.
As you travel across the plateau, the rock engravings are a big highlight. These old carvings show scenes of daily life, hunting, and special figures, made by the Berber ancestors.
They act as silent storytellers, connecting the past and present, making your visit to Yagour both enlightening and unforgettable.
Highlights of 8 Day Yagour Plateau Trek
As you explore the Yagour Plateau, you’ll find many amazing highlights that make this 8-day trek special.
This trip isn’t just about the physical challenge, it’s a cultural journey into the heart of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, offering unique experiences and breathtaking views.
- Berber Villages: Walk through traditional Berber villages where you’ll see daily life, mudbrick homes, and friendly locals. These villages show you the rich heritage and customs of the Berber people.
- Ancient Rock Engravings: See ancient rock carvings that give you a peek into Morocco’s prehistoric past. These fascinating carvings are scattered across the plateau and tell stories of early civilizations.
- Scenic Landscapes: The Yagour Plateau Trek offers stunning views at every turn. From lush valleys to rugged mountain passes, the natural beauty of this region will leave you amazed.
- Overnight Stays: Enjoy warm hospitality during overnight stays in Berber guesthouses. These places let you rest and recharge while experiencing local traditions and food.
Let the solitude and peace of the Yagour Plateau create unforgettable memories on your trek.
8 Days Exploring the Yagour Plateau – Tour Itinerary
You’ll start your adventure by arriving in Marrakech to get ready for the trek.
Over the next few days, you’ll walk through the High Atlas Valleys, visit mountain villages, and see ancient rock carvings on the Yagour Plateau.
Each day will give you a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making this trip one you won’t forget.
Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech
You’ll start your adventure by arriving in Marrakech, where someone will greet you warmly at the airport and take you to a nice 3-star hotel for the night.
The bustling city of Marrakech will be your starting point for the amazing Yagour Plateau Trek. After arriving, you’ll quickly settle into the hotel to relax and get ready for the trip ahead.
The ride from the airport to your hotel is easy and smooth, so you start your trip without stress. Once you check-in, you can relax and enjoy the feel of Marrakech.
The 3-star hotel gives you a nice mix of comfort and hospitality, ensuring a good night’s rest before your trek begins.
For dinner, you can explore Marrakech’s food on your own. The city has lots of food choices, from busy street food stalls to cozy traditional restaurants.
Tonight is your chance to try Moroccan food, like a tasty tagine or sweet pastries.
As night falls, you’ll go back to your hotel room, excited for the Yagour Plateau adventure that lies ahead.
Day 2: The High Atlas Valleys
Leaving the busy city of Marrakech, you’ll head towards the High Atlas Mountains, where the adventure really starts.
Your day trip begins with a beautiful drive to the Tzi N’Tichka pass, which is 2400 meters high. Here, you’ll meet the team of mule handlers who’ll go with you on the hike.
The hike starts with a 2-hour walk along a balcony path, giving you amazing views of the Tichka Gorges below.
The path takes you to the Tizi Afra pass, which is 2150 meters high. This is where you’ll first see the wild Zat valley, a hidden treasure in the High Atlas.
The green valley stands out against the rough mountain landscape, creating a breathtaking scene for your trek.
After crossing the Tizi Afra pass, you’ll head to the high plateau of Afra, which is 2000 meters high. Here, you’ll set up your camp for an overnight stay.
This is also your first meeting with the nomads who live in this remote area, adding a special cultural experience to your hike.
Day 3: High Atlas Mountain Villages
You will descend into the Afra Gorges. The trail goes down into the beautiful Zat Valley and takes you to the lovely villages of Assats and Azgour, which are 1450 meters high.
As you walk through these pretty villages, you’ll see the simple and friendly life of the Berber people. The way down gives you a special view of how people farm and live in the High Atlas Mountains.
After a nice picnic by the stream, you’ll walk along a path that winds its way to the high-up villages on the Yagour plateau.
Each step gets you closer to the heart of this amazing area, where fields and old homes fit perfectly with the natural surroundings.
When you reach the plateau, you’ll set up camp near the sheep pens at the edge of Ouarzazate, a village at 2300 meters.
Surrounded by green fields, this campsite gives you a mix of quiet and beauty.
Relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as you get ready for another day of adventure in the High Atlas Mountains.
Day 4: Yagour Plateau and Rock Engravings
As you wake up to the peaceful beauty of the Yagour Plateau, get ready for a day of exploring cool landscapes and ancient rock carvings.
You’ll go through a maze of stone cubes and green lawns, where Berber people have lived for generations.
You’ll be amazed by the view as you climb up 100 meters and go down 400 meters, walking through a place that feels both old and untouched.
The best part of your day will be the rock carvings. These ancient drawings on the stone show Morocco’s prehistoric past. They give you a cool look into the lives of the early people who lived on the plateau.
As you walk, you’ll feel connected to history and understand why these carvings are important to Berber culture.
Day 5: Toubkal Villages and Terraced Crops
You’ll travel through the beautiful villages of Anammer and Agued, where the terraced crops make the landscape look rich and green.
As you walk down through these lovely villages, you’ll see the lively farming life that’s so important here. The terraced crops look like a stunning patchwork, showing the hard work of the local Berber people.
As you keep hiking, you’ll reach the Tizi n’Oucheg pass at 1665 meters high. Here, take a moment to enjoy the amazing views of the Toubkal massif, which is the highest peak in North Africa.
You can also see the high plateau of Oukaimden in the distance, which makes the landscape even more dramatic. This is a great spot for a picnic among the orchards.
After a day full of beautiful scenery and learning about the local culture, you’ll set up your camp on a plateau at 2200 meters high, right at the bottom of Tizi n’oughri. This campsite gives you a peaceful night under the stars, ending a memorable day of adventure.
Enjoy the calm and get ready for the next part of your journey on the Yagour Plateau Trek.
Day 6: The Sheepfolds of Adrar N’Yagour
You will start your day early with a climb up the N’Oughri pass (2300m) for a stunning view of the Ourika Valley. The lush greenery and scenic beauty will amaze you.
After enjoying the view, you’ll head down to the sheepfolds at the foot of Adrar n’Yagour. Here, you’ll see the traditional enclosures used by Berber shepherds for centuries.
Next, you’ll take a relaxing picnic break under the cool shade of walnut trees, with the charming villages of Tichki and Aourir in the background. This peaceful spot is perfect for refueling and enjoying the calm surroundings.
After your picnic, you’ll follow a beautiful balcony path to the Izlafene pass (2080m) and the wide Matous plateau.
The journey offers amazing views of the Yagour Plateau, revealing new sights with each step.
Day 7: The Wild Zat Valley
After a peaceful night on the vibrant green plateau, it’s time to explore the beautiful and little-known Zat Valley.
This day of your trek offers a diverse and engaging experience, starting with a descent of 850 meters through lush orchards nestled between the scenic villages of Ait Goum and Assloun.
As you traverse these charming settlements, you’ll get a glimpse into the traditional Berber way of life, much like what you experienced in the Ourika Valley.
The trek continues past some fascinating cave drawings, showcasing the region’s ancient history and adding a touch of mystery to your journey.
The path will then lead you onto a dirt road to Tighdwin, where the landscape gradually shifts, offering new vistas and unforgettable scenes.
You’ll finish your hike at the pottery village of Talatasste, where you can admire the local craftsmanship before enjoying a relaxing picnic.
Afterward, meet your vehicle at Arbaa Tighdouine for a scenic 80-kilometer drive back to Marrakech.
Once in the city, check into your comfortable 3-star hotel, where you can enjoy a complimentary dinner and unwind from the day’s adventures. Camp overnight next.
Day 8: Dispersion
After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the Yagour Plateau and head back home.
After exploring the amazing landscapes and rich culture of the High Atlas Mountains for several days, this morning marks the group’s departure.
You’ll pack your things and get ready for the ride to the airport. As you pack, you’ll think about the green valleys, ancient rock carvings, and the friendly Berber people you met.
Leaving is a bit sad because the Yagour Plateau’s beauty and peace have made a big impact on you.
Your time in this remote part of Morocco has shown you a traditional way of life, and it’s hard to say goodbye. But the journey must go on.
The ride to the airport is well-organized, so your trek ends smoothly. You’ll travel back through the scenic routes, seeing some of the paths you walked over the past week again.
When you get to the airport, you can’t help but think about the incredible experiences you’ve had and the new friends you’ve made.
8 Days Yagour plateau and Zat valley Trek – Price
When you think about the price of the Yagour Plateau and Zat Valley Trek, it’s important to know what’s included.
You’ll get a place to stay, a guide, meals, and transport.
But you should plan for personal expenses and tips because they aren’t covered.
Included in the Tour
Your adventure includes:
- On-site transfers: Easy travel between hiking spots so you can enjoy the views.
- Luggage transport: Carry only what you need each day, as your heavy gear will be transported for you.
- Full board accommodation: Stay in cozy Berber homes surrounded by oak and juniper trees, perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking.
- The framework: Expert guides and well-planned routes ensure you see all the highlights, from ancient rock carvings to local culture.
Full board accommodation means most of your meals are covered, so you can enjoy tasty local food without worry.
With all these features included, you’re set for an easy and exciting trek through some of Morocco’s most beautiful and interesting areas.
Not Included in the Tour Price
While the Yagour Plateau and Zat Valley Trek is an amazing adventure, there are a few things you have to pay for yourself.
Before you start from the beautiful Ourika Valley or visit the peaceful Oukaiden Plateau, know what’s not included in the tour price.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Insurance
- Registration fees
- Tips
- Personal expenses and drinks
FAQs About Yagour Plateau Trekking In Morocco
What Is the Best Time of Year to Trek the Yagour Plateau?
The best time to trek is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush.
Your journey will be more enjoyable and comfortable if you avoid the summer heat and winter’s harsh conditions.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants on the Yagour Plateau Trek?
There aren’t strict age restrictions for participants. It’s important to check your physical fitness and consult a doctor if you have any health concerns before starting the journey.
What Kind of Physical Condition Is Required for This Trek?
You need to be in good shape for this trek. You’ll face steep climbs and long days of walking, so it’s important to have stamina and endurance.
Doing regular exercise and having some prior hiking experience will help a lot if you want to enjoy the trek.
Can Dietary Needs Be Accommodated During the Trek?
Yes, your dietary needs can be accommodated. Tell the organizers about any restrictions or preferences before the trek.
This way, they can plan meals so you stay healthy and enjoy the hike without any worries.
What Type of Accommodation Is Available on the Yagour Plateau Trek?
You’ll stay in a mix of cozy tents and traditional Berber guesthouses. Expect comfortable camping under the stars and friendly hospitality in villages.
This way, you can enjoy both the culture and the natural beauty of the area.
Wrapping Up
You’ll love every moment of the Yagour Plateau Trek, from the old rock carvings to the friendly Berber villages.
This 8-day trip with Altastriptour has a magical mix of nature and culture. The Yagour Plateau has amazing views and a rich history, making it a trip you’ll never forget.
So, put on your boots and start this awesome journey, Morocco’s hidden gem is waiting for you!