Ancient Lake

Ancient Lake is the first track in set for Diddy Kong Racing and its DS counterpart, Diddy Kong Racing DS. One balloon is required to get in this track, while six are needed for the second challenge.

This track has been made for beginning racers and is fairly easy due to low level computer A.I. The track is mainly in a circle, around a prehistoric lake. There are two zippers in this track as well that can make the racer move faster for a few seconds. A dinosaur is also near the end of the race, getting in the player's way. This track also holds the key to the locked door in Dino Domain. It is in an overlooked area on a ramp that requires a speed boost to get to.

Track Layout
The track begins with a strait pathway over the concrete road. Racers with bad control can drive off of this wide road, likely hitting into a small branch or palm tree. The road will soon become bumpier, as it begins to curve around the bend. In this curvy area, a zipper can be found in which racers can ride over to get an extra speed boost. The track will then bend into a small U shape, until the player rides under a small tunnel, where they can find a set of three balloons to give them items. On the other side of this tunnel is a large, prehistoric dinosaur, as well as a small lake. Careless racers can hit into the dinosaur or drive into the lake, causing them to lose speed. As the race nears its end, the track will continue to bend a little, leading the racers to a zipper.

In the Nintendo DS remake of the game, this road is covered by a large tunnel, being followed by a small bridge over a small river. For both games, the track ends with a straight pathway into the finish line.

Coin Challenge Locations
Like the other levels of Diddy Kong Racing and Diddy Kong Racing DS, Ancient Lake is filled with eight coins, scattered all around the area. However, the coins only appear once the player has beaten the world's boss at least once.


 * 1) On a small bump before the first set of Item Balloons.
 * 2) Shortly after the first set of Item Balloons in the center of the track.
 * 3) Just after the first set of bananas, found in the center of the track, just like the other coins.
 * 4) Slightly in front of the third coin.
 * 5) When the racer rides around the first turn, the coin is in the center of the road.
 * 6) Not too long after the second set of Item Balloons.
 * 7) In the dinosaur's path, shortly after the sixth coin. As usual, it is located in the middle of the road.
 * 8) After hitting the last zipper, the coin can be found between two bananas.