Why did early caravan routes through Kenya avoid some Maasai territories?

During the 19th century, Arab and Swahili ivory caravans traveling through the interior of what is now Kenya often avoided routes passing through Maasai territories primarily due to the hostility of the Maasai people.12

While a route existed from Mombasa toward Mount Elgon, it was less popular than trails located farther south. In addition to the threat posed by the Maasai, these northern paths were difficult to navigate because they required crossing the desert environment of the Taru Plain.12