Maasai pastoralists arrived in the Conservation Area
a few hundred years ago. Their strong insistence on their traditional customs
and way of life allow them to live in harmony with the wildlife and the enviornment.
As of today there are approximately 52,000 Maasai living in the NCA with
their livestock.
Being herders of cattle, goats and sheep, their semi-nomadic life depends
on accessible water supplies.
Their seasonal homes, known as bomas, are scattered throughout the landscape
and are rebuilt upon return from the dry or wet season quarters.
Designated 'Cultural Bomas' offer visitors the chance to learn about the
Maasai culture and to buy a variety of handicrafts. Such cultural tourism
also encourages residents to share their values with the outside world
and provides them with direct financial benefits.
