Known for their intricate beadwork, their brightly coloured red ‘shukas’, and their spears carried in hand, the Masai tribe call the Mara home. They have lived on this land for thousands of years, keeping the grasses pristine and clean, while living with their cattle and the Mara wildlife.
Most of our staff are Masai, in fact your tents are guarded by Masai warriors, and they would be happy to show you their villages. The Masai live in semi-permanent huts called Manyattas, and it’s the role of the woman in the household to construct it from cow dung and grass. Enjoy the opportunity to buy some of the traditional bead necklaces and wristbands, as well as some blankets or dresses.
Before European contact, the Masai would create the beads from natural resources. Clay, wood, copper, bone, and brass were just a few of the materials used to get the colourful balls. When trade introduced glass beads, they became the primary material, along with plastic in more recent times.
Masai jewelry, made by the women of the tribe, is more than just a decoration. Each colour represents something deeper. The meaning is often related to cattle, the main food source of the tribes. The Masai sustain a deep connection with them. Orange and yellow represent hospitality, as they are the colours of the cow skin stretched on guest beds. Blue symbolizes energy, and reflects the sky’s importance as it brings rain for the cattle. Black symbolizes the people and all the struggles they must overcome, and white represents purity, and the milk from the cows. Finally, red symbolises bravery and unity, as the red blood of cows is spilt during important celebrations and gatherings.
Make sure to pick the necklace that most represents you on your trip to the Mara.