The Mambo and Salsa have the same footwork so I have grouped them together. The style of these dances can be similar as well. The major difference is in the timing of the dance. Salsa can start on any beat of music. Mambo, on the other hand, is only started on the 2nd beat of music making it similar to a single count Cha Cha. The music of Salsa is very rhythmical and generally people find it challenging to hear the beats. Mambo, on the other hand, is more staccato and sharper in its rhythms. Both dances use the same type of Latin style wiggling the hips all about. For more about Mambo's position and footwork, see Rumba or Cha Cha. Salsa will be the same as well, but the framework is more flexible due to the strong "street style" of the Salsa. Salsa can be danced in an open two-hand hold, or in a closed frame like Cha Cha.

15 Sec Music Clip
(Tito Puente - Ran Kan Kan)

Man's Footwork

Lady's Footwork