The Maasai are Nilotic-speaking, semi-nomadic pastoralists located in Northern Tanzania and Southern Kenya. They consists of about 12 different groups defined by their geographical location. The largest group, the Ilkisongo, live in Tanzania and are found mostly in the northern plains and highland areas.
The Maasai are a noticeably tall people and are often seen wearing traditional clothing which always includes some red clothing. Their class is determined by the number of cows owned by the family and they consider both the land and their cattle to be sacred. Young warriors (Ilmorani) are in charge of society's security and carry a traditional weapon/spear while boys are responsible for herding livestock. Elders are advisors for everyday activities and women are responsible for making houses, supplying water, collecting firewood, milking cattle and family cooking.
The Maasai construct houses out of cow dung and mud over a frame of sticks that are sunk into the ground. They are very dark inside, with usually only one small round windowm. Beds are made of leather cowhide. The houses are built in a circle (called a boma), and at night the cows are placed in the center for safety from wildlife.
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