The Maasai People

There are over 1.5 million Maasai living in Kenya and Tanzania.  The Maasai are semi-nomadic herders with a proud warrior tradition.  Young Maasai men undergo many rites of passage on their journey to become hunters and herdsmen, and are expected to fiercely defend their cattle and homes.  Maasai women are renowned for their fine jewelry-making skills which they spend their entire lives perfecting.

Today, many Maasai still live their traditional lives, but with the modern economy and environmental changes taking a larger toll, many have come to depend on tourism as a source of income.  Many villagers near the major game reserves in the region make their living offering themselves as tour guides or selling their jewelry.  Through tourism, people from all over the world have a chance to witness the beautiful Maasai culture and handicrafts.