Learning the Afro-Puerto Rican Dance of Bomba

Learning bomba in Puerto Rico was an unforgettable experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the island who wants to have fun and connect with the Afro-Puerto Rican history and culture!

Bomba is one of the oldest dance forms on the island, and its origins go back to the enslaved Africans who brought their culture to Puerto Rico centuries ago. At its core, bomba is a way to express emotion, rebellion, and community. There are typically two drummers involved—one who keeps a steady beat (the buoyante), and another who literally reacts to the dancer’s movements (the primo). It’s beautiful watching the connection of the dancer and drummer, where the dancer’s energy dictates how the primo drummer responds.

The beauty of bomba lies in improvisation and freedom. Dancers wear these big, flowing skirts that swirl around them, adding drama and flair to every step. There’s a move called “piquetes” where you raise your arms and give a cue to the primo drummer, and they have to match your moves and energy. It feels so empowering to be in control of the rhythm.

During my class, the instructor taught us enough basic moves that I felt comfortable dancing at a local spot, El Iman Bar & Restaurant, in Loíza. Regardless, it was still nerve-wracking since in bomba there is only one dancer at a time, but so worth it. The place was so cool! There were parents with their kids. You could tell that the moms do this frequently with how they commanded the skirts and drummer.

Bomba a dance of resistance and resilience from the African slaves, but also of joy and celebration. The drumbeats of bomba made me feel connected not only to Puerto Rican culture, but to my own African roots as well.