Tuareg marriages usually take place between couples within the same clan, or extended family unit. Marriages between cousins are preferred. A newlywed couple generally lives for about a year in the camp of the bride's parents. Then, they will move over to the husband's camp. The typical age for marriage is between 20 and 25 for women and almost 30 for men.
Marriage always requires the payment of a bride price.
The size of the gift varies according to the beauty and social standing of the bride, as well as the wealth of the groom. A young man needs quite a few camels to pay the bride price. He must also accumulate a large enough flock to feed his family and still have extra to sell to provide for his household needs. Tuareg women are treated with respect. However, they are not allowed to hold political offices or exercise any authority outside their own tents.