Few images are as representative of East Africa as the brightly coloured Masai warriors. They continue to live the proud, pseudo-nomadic lifestyle despite the rapid modernisation of Tanzania and Kenya.

Predominantly cattle breeders, they measure a man's worth in the number of cattle he owns and the number of children he fathers. The latter is depending heavily upon the former.

Traditionally, the Masai people are recognizable by their distinct attire. Women spend much of their spare time doing beadwork, and they often adorn their bodies with their creations as well as bracelets and earrings of wood or bone.

As a patriarchal society, men play an important role in a Masai tribe. In addition to the council of elders who handle the day to day running of a  village, warriors (or il-murran) are a focal point of Masai society. From an early age, boys are sent out to mind the herds, while their sisters work with their mothers to learn skills such as cooking and milking. Many authentic Masai villages do not welcome tourists, but tourist-friendly villages and markets welcome those wishing to purchase Masai goods or meet with Masai people.