Masai Mara Village Visit
Visit a Maasai Village – Discover Kenya’s Richest Living Culture
An authentic cultural experience during your Masai Mara or Amboseli safari.
You’ve likely seen photos — the striking reds, blues, and purples of the shukas wrapped around tall, proud warriors; the intricate beaded jewelry worn by Maasai women, gleaming against the backdrop of East Africa’s savannahs.
These are the Maasai, one of East Africa’s oldest and most iconic communities. For centuries, they have lived a nomadic life, moving with their cattle across the sweeping plains of Kenya and Tanzania. Today, many Maasai villages welcome guests, offering a rare and genuine glimpse into their ancient culture.
Arriving at the Village – An Explosion of Colour
Your first impression will be the vibrant attire of the Maasai. The brightly colored shukas contrast beautifully against the earthy tones of the surrounding landscape. Their beaded jewelry — handcrafted by the women — is more than just decorative; it symbolizes age, status, and social identity.
You’ll have the opportunity to admire and purchase some of these exquisite pieces directly from the artisans, supporting the local community and taking home a meaningful, handmade souvenir.
Traditional Music and Dance
Your visit may include a warm welcome of traditional song and dance. The Maasai are known for their rhythmic, call-and-response singing and their famous jumping dance — the adumu. Warriors gather in a circle, taking turns leaping as high as they can to the rising cadence of the singers. Guests are often invited to join in, adding a joyful, participatory touch to the experience.
The Boma – A Peek into Maasai Daily Life
In contrast to the colorful people, you’ll find the earthy tones of the traditional homes, known as bomas. These small huts are built by the women using mud, sticks, cow dung, and ash — an eco-friendly and time-tested method.
Though modest (around 3 x 5 meters and less than 1.5 meters tall), these dwellings house cooking, sleeping, and social life — often shared with young livestock. A peek inside offers a humbling look into a lifestyle shaped by simplicity, resilience, and tradition.
The men’s role in village construction includes building the thorn fencing that protects the community and livestock from predators at night.
Let Us Arrange Your Maasai Cultural Visit
During your Natural World Kenya safari to Masai Mara or Amboseli, we can organize a visit to a local Maasai village as an optional excursion. The cost is $45 per person, payable directly to the village chief.
Just let your driver-guide know — they will be happy to make the arrangements.