The Masaai Tribe

I will never forget the faces of the children along the road, so friendly with big smiles. As  we drove through the  villages we saw alot of little boys looking after the herd of young calves, they were as young as 5 years old.  My son Jamie is 9 years and I am not sure if he could do this

Children are a very important part of the Maasai culture. Young boys begin to herd the little animals before the age of 5. As they get older, they herd the young calves and finally the cattle. These larger animals require that the boys move around to areas far from their home. The young girls can also herd but usually follow their mother's example of building huts, milking and helping with the other children.

The move to Warriorhood is a very special time in a Maasai’s life. This is the time when they become men – Il Moran – Warriors. With this comes things the man must begin to do. It says that he must go off and live with boys his age and travel as a group. He does not herd cattle during this time but does receive milk in the homes he visits as they travel out on their own. This is a way of teaching the men skills they will need as Warriors.  Eventually, these warriors return, a huge celebration and party is held in their honour, almost like a initiation ceremony.  Its at this stage that the Warriors can begin herding again, get married and raise families. It is then that they can begin to acquire cattle or wealth. Like the Zulu and Xhosa is South Africa, a Maasai’s wealth and prestige within the Tribe is directly related to the head of cattle they own.

Staying somewhere in the Masai Mara such as Olonana or Kichwa Tembo Bateleur Camp gives you a unique opportunity to interact with the Masaai. Most of the lodges employ local Maasai people, and most lodges give you the opportunity to go and visit a Masaai Manyatta.