Bachata vs salsa: which should you start with?

Bachata and salsa are both incredible — and you'll probably end up loving both. But if you're just starting, here's a simple guide.

Bachata is romantic, smooth and a little easier to pick up at first. The basic is a side-to-side step, which many beginners find approachable. Salsa is faster, more energetic and rhythmically playful — it takes a touch more coordination early on but is endlessly rewarding.

Our advice? Try a class of each. Many of our students dance both, and the skills transfer beautifully. There's no wrong choice — only more dancing.