Monkey Mines

Monkey Mines (simply known as Mines in the animated series) is the second world of Donkey Kong Country. It has five levels, most of which take place in a subterranean setting. On Donkey Kong Island, Monkey Mines is located at the foot of the hill leading to next world, Vine Valley. Winky the Frog is the only Animal Friend who appears in the world. Master Necky is the boss fought at the end.

In the cartoon, this area is closely connected to King K. Rool and his minions' base. The area is alluded to in the Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle Donkey Kong Adventure story expansion, where it is mentioned in the description of Rabbid Cranky's Croaker Disposer. Since this weapon takes its design after Winky the Frog, the description references how the Animal Buddy first appears in this world in Donkey Kong Country.

However, as confirmed by Kynan Pearson, one of the main designers of Donkey Kong Country Returns, the Monkey Mines and Ruins are the same location.