Total Number of People = 1 to 50 people

Among the 125 tribes of Tanzania are the Maasai, who live in the northern part of Tanzania, around the Arusha region. They are believed to have originated as nomads from Sudan and migrated up the river Nile into Kenya and then Tanzania, in search of greener pastures for their livestock.

The Maasai are pastoralists; livestock is their main source of livelihood, which can mean that they do not have a permanent place to stay. In Tanzania, Maasai were mainly found in the Arusha region concentrating in Monduli, Loliondo, and Ngorongoro areas, but due to their nomadic life nowadays they are found in many regions. Their houses are known as bomas are built in largely open areas where they can accommodate their livestock which are fenced off with thorn bushes for protection.

The main color of the Maasai’s dress is bright red; they plaster themselves with red ochre dung, dug from the ground and softened with cow fat. The liquid mixture is applied to the garments, turning them red. Ochre is the traditional clothing common among the youth, who are called morans. They are also known for wearing bright and colored anklets and bracelets made from beads. Their ears also have pierced holes and they wear beautiful beads on them. Men may carry a spear over their shoulders, and a knife known as sime on their waist, and a rungu which is a wooden throwing club or baton.

Their main diet is meat and their most notable meal consists of fresh blood and raw meat. They mix the fresh blood with milk and feed it to the women and children. The Maasai practice polygamy; men marry more wives who bear their children, who are considered a sign of riches.

Maasai practiced both males and females’ circumcision, this practice enrolls one from one age group to another. It is during circumcision that one is taught of their role in society. There is no marriage before circumcision.