What is Kizomba?

Discover this sensual dance style from Angola that captures hearts worldwide.

What is Kizomba?

Kizomba is a sensual, rhythmic and emotional dance style originating in Angola.

The name literally means “celebration” in Kimbundu, one of the local languages, and that is exactly what this style of dance is: a celebration of music, connection and movement. The dance is characterized by fluid movements, intimate partner connection and deep, compelling musicality.

Kizomba is often considered the “Tango of Africa” because of its passion and elegance.

The History of Kizomba

Kizomba originated in Angola in the 1980s and has its roots in traditional African dances, such as Semba.

Through influences from Caribbean Zouk music and European ballroom techniques, it evolved into a unique style with a modern twist.

From Angola, Kizomba then spread to other African countries and eventually to Europe and the rest of the world, where it became a beloved dance style in the Latin and Afro-dance community.

Weekly there are several parties and festivals organized in “the scene”. For parties in Belgium you can find an overview on the website of Kizomba Belgium.

Sofie en Andreas dansen Kizomba op een Kizomba party in open lucht.

Kizomba styles

Over the years, this dance style has evolved, with different styles and influences:

  1. Traditional Kizomba: This style emphasizes close-hold connection, fluid movements and simple steps that perfectly follow the music.
  2. Urban Kiz: A modern interpretation, originating in Europe, with tighter movements and more focus on geometric patterns and musical accents.
  3. Tarraxinha: A more intimate, minimalist style, emphasizing isolations and micro-movements of the body.
  4. Konpa: A sultry and rhythmic beat with influences from traditional Haitian music (such as Méringue), as well as jazz and Latin American styles.
  5. Kizomba Douceur: A softer, slower variation that is all about romance, emotion and an intimate connection between dance partners, with music full of tenderness and melody. It emphasizes fluid movements and subtle musicality.

At Bailando Latino we teach Kizomba Fusion classes. We start from the traditional basics and introduce elements of Urban Kiz for more variety and dynamism.

Why people fall in love with this dance style

  • Releasing stress & being totally in the moment
  • Connection & communication without words
  • Meeting new people in a warm community
  • Good for body, mind and self-confidence
  • Fun guaranteed, even if you come solo
Verschillende koppels dansen Kizomba op een Kizomba party in open lucht op een houden dansvloer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kizomba hard to learn?

Kizomba is quite challenging, but it is perfectly learnable as a beginner. The dance is slow and flowing, and with the right guidance you will learn step by step the rhythm, technique and connection.

Before you know it, you will feel completely comfortable on the dance floor.

Can I learn Kizomba without a partner?

Absolutely!!! You don’t need a dance partner to participate in Kizomba classes. During the classes you will change partners regularly, so you will learn to dance with different people as well as make new connections quickly.

Solo starting is totally normal!

What is the difference between Kizomba and Urban Kiz?

Kizomba is the traditional, sultry dance style from Angola with soft, flowing movements. Urban Kiz originated in Europe and mixes elements of Kizomba with modern dance influences. Urban Kiz dances looser and has more emphasis on lines and dynamics.

In our classes, we start from the authentic Kizomba vibe, but as you progress, we build in more and more elements of Urban Kiz.

Starting Kizomba yourself?

We regularly organize FREE trial classes for Kizomba. Sign up and find out how much fun it is to learn this dance.