Africa is beauty, wilderness and wildlife. But it is also a land of fascinating tribes with ancient cultures. One of them, the Masai tribe, has been living for centuries in Kenya and Tanzania, in Masai Mara, and arouses great admiration for their customs, organisation and way of life. Do you want to know a little more about them? Don’t miss this post we have created for you.
In particular, we would like to tell you about 5 curiosities about the Masai that make them a really special tribe. In fact, they are a must-see on any Masai Mara safari you wish to go on. This ancestral people have been able to modify their customs over time. From being fierce warriors, they have evolved into semi-nomadic pastoralists who seek out the best pastures and let the land regenerate itself. They are estimated to number around 850,000 members.
- A Deep Connection to Nature: The Masai consider themselves guardians of the land and have a deep spiritual connection to nature, believing that all living things—animals, trees, and rivers—are interconnected.
- Ancient Warrior Traditions: While many Masai have embraced modern careers, the tribe’s warrior culture remains at its core. Masai men go through various rites of passage to become warriors and are highly trained in skills like jumping high during ceremonies.
- Diet of Cattle: The Masai’s diet traditionally revolves around cattle. They drink milk, eat meat, and even consume blood, which is drawn from live cattle in a special ritual that symbolizes their bond with the animals.
- The Role of Enkai: The Masai believe in Enkai, their god of creation, who governs the land and all of its creatures. This spiritual relationship influences their daily lives and rituals.
- Rites of Passage: Becoming an adult in Masai culture is marked by several key rites of passage, from circumcision to the moment they are given a new name. These traditions are vital in shaping their identities.
