Panama City: Salsa & AfroCuban Dance Class Casco Viejo

Summary

Salsa steps and laughter in casco viejo’s old streets

You’ll step into a lively Casco Viejo studio for a salsa or AfroCuban dance class with local pros who make even beginners feel welcome. Expect laughter, hands-on coaching, and time to try other dances like bachata or cha cha cha if you want. By the end you’ll have new moves—and maybe new friends—to take out into Panama City’s nightlife.

What’s the experience like?

Li greeted us at the door with this huge grin, like she already knew we’d be awkward at first. The studio sits right in the middle of Casco Viejo — you can hear street sounds through the open windows, bits of music from somewhere else, taxi horns, someone selling fruit. I was nervous about the salsa part (my feet don’t listen), but she just said “don’t worry, nobody’s judging here.” There was this faint smell of cologne and something sweet, maybe guava juice? Not sure. Anyway, we started moving before I could overthink it.

Our guide (I think his name was Miguel?) showed us how to count out the steps — he clapped along so even when I messed up, it felt like a joke instead of a mistake. He told us stories about salsa clubs in Panama City and how people use these moves for real parties. My partner spun me around and I nearly crashed into another couple; everyone laughed, including some solo travelers who looked just as lost as I did. They offered extra instruction in bachata or cha cha cha if you wanted — Li laughed when I tried to say “cha cha cha” in Spanish. Probably butchered it.

By the end, my shirt was sticking to my back (it gets warm fast), but honestly I didn’t care. There was this moment when everyone got quiet for a second between songs — just catching breath — and you could hear the city outside again. It felt like being part of something local instead of just watching from the side. We left with enough moves to try a real salsa club later that night… still not sure my hips are ready for that, but hey. I still think about that feeling walking out into the humid street with new friends.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Learn salsa dancing in Casco Viejo

• Arrive at salsa studio in Casco Viejo
• Meet local professional dance instructors
• Join salsa or AfroCuban dance class
• Learn dance steps in relaxed setting
• Practice dancing with personalized attention
• Enjoy tropical Latin vibe atmosphere
• Finish class with new dance skills

Top questions

Is this salsa class in Casco Viejo suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners are welcome and no experience is needed.

Do I need a partner to join the salsa or AfroCuban dance class?

No partner is required; solo travelers can join easily.

What dance styles are included besides salsa?

You can also try bachata, merengue, or cha cha cha during your class.

Is the dance studio wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the studio is wheelchair accessible.

Are children allowed in the dance class?

Infants and small children can attend with an adult and use a stroller.

Where is the salsa class located?

The class takes place in a local studio in Casco Viejo, Panama City.

How experienced are the instructors?

The team has over 40 years of experience teaching dance.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the studio.

What’s included

Your day includes fun group instruction with professional dancers who offer personalized coaching in salsa or AfroCuban styles—plus extra time to try bachata, merengue or cha cha cha if you’re curious—all set inside a hip tropical studio right in Casco Viejo’s heart before you head back out into Panama City’s buzz.