African Traditional Cultures - Traditional Tribes in Africa
The Maasai People of East Africa
An introduction to the Maasai tribe of East Africa. The Maasai are pastoralists and warriors. Self-sufficient and proud, the Maasai are now struggling to maintain their traditions. Their grazing lands are being parceled off and much of it is now protected National Park land. This article also lists some cultural tours for those interested in spending some time with the Maasai people.
The Himba People
The Himba are semi-nomadic pastoralists who live in Kaokoland which is in the Northwest of Namibia. The Himba are a striking people to look at because they have maintained their traditional culture and dress. The women are topless and cover their bodies with a paste made from fat and ochre. This is an introduction to the Himba including links to tours.
The San Bushmen (Basarwa) of the Kalahari
The San (or Basarwa) people of the Kalahari are more commonly known as the Bushmen. The San are traditionally hunter-gatherers and live in small mobile family groups. This article gives an overview of San traditional culture as well as present day issues. It also lists various cultural tours so visitors can experience a little hunting and gathering themselves.
The Samburu of Kenya
The Samburu live in Northern Kenya, in the beautiful Rift Valley region. The Samburu are staunch traditionalists and still lead a semi-nomadic lifestyle for the most part. Visitors to the region can enjoy staying at a community run eco-lodge or hop on the back of a camel led by a Samburu warrior.
Images of Omo River Tribes, Ethiopia
Images and information about Ethiopian Tribes living in the Omo River Region, Southwestern Ethiopia. Images include the Mursi, Hamer, Bodi, Ari, Bumi and Karo tribes of the Omo River region of Ethiopia. Each tribe has its unique customs, language, rituals, and ceremonies.
Travelogue from Lake Eyasi, Tanzania
Travelogue from Lake Eyasi, Tanzania submitted to the Africa for Visitors site. Has information about the Lake Eyasi region and the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes. Links to cultural and trekking tours in the Lake Eyasi region.
Survival International
International non-profit, Survival International works to promote and fight for tribal rights world wide. Excellent source of information for anyone interested in this topic. They are very active on behalf of the San Bushmen in particular.
The Touareg
Overview of the history and current situation of the Touareg people, nomadic pastoralists living primarily in, and on the edges of the Sahara desert.