Ancient Lake

Ancient Lake is the first track in set for Diddy Kong Racing and itsDS 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.

 The track begins with a straight road. There is a small bump with a few   bananas. After the bump, there are two red balloons on the left and two blue balloons on the right. There is a gentle turn to the left. After this, players can use a dash panel. They can take the main path containing a few bananas or they can travel on the grass to collect a blue balloon.

Soon, there is a overhang. Two red balloons surround a blue balloon. There is a turn to the left with the edges being water. A large green dinosaur also roams in this area, serving as an obstacle. After this turn, players can use a dash panel to speed to the race line.

In the Nintendo DS remake of the game, the last segment is covered by a large tunnel, being followed by a small bridge over a small river.