Donkey Kong Bananza Secrets and Collectibles Guide
Written by Andrew Hammel | Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong Bananza is packed with secrets, optional paths, and hidden collectibles in every layer. From post-game-only gems to sonar-based treasure hunts, the game rewards exploration with upgrades, bananas, fossils, and side content most players miss.
You’ll need to clear all 17 main layers/levels to finish the story, but full completion requires revisiting every area with upgraded skills and transformations. Below is a full breakdown of every known secret system and collectible count.
Secret Systems and Hidden Mechanics
Sonar and Treasure Maps
Unlock Better Sonar early to detect hidden Banandium and breakable terrain. Maps can also be dug up and point you to rare collectibles.
Post-Game Unlocks
Some gems and fossils can only be collected after beating the final boss. Warp Gongs allow instant access to earlier sublayers once unlocked.
Optional Routes
The Divide layer (SL 400) lets you choose between Freezer or Forest paths first. Your choice changes dialogue and encounter order, but both must be completed to progress.
Transformation-Gated Secrets
Ancient Bananza forms like Zebra and Ostrich let you cross hazards, float, or break terrain in ways DK can’t in his normal state. Backtrack once you unlock new powers.
Hidden Bananzas
Some Bananza powers are optional and hidden behind puzzles or detours. Unlocking all of them allows full access to terrain and final skill tree perks.
All Layers with Collectible Counts
| Layer | Bananas | Fossils |
|---|---|---|
| Ingot Isle | 36 | — |
| Lagoon Layer | 56 | 72 |
| Hilltop Layer | 38 | 30 |
| Canyon Layer | 80 | 72 |
| The Divide | 10 | — |
| Freezer Layer | 87 | 72 |
| Forest Layer | 83 | 72 |
| The Junction | 15 | — |
| Resort Layer | 42 | 30 |
| Tempest Layer | 70 | 72 |
| Landfill Layer | 27 | 30 |
| Racing Layer | 10 | — |
| Radiance Layer | 76 | 72 |
| Groove Layer | 30 | 30 |
| Feast Layer | 69 | 72 |
| Forbidden Layer | 25 | 30 |
| Planet Core | 23 | 42 |
There are 777 Banandium Gems and nearly 700 fossils total. Most layers contain at least 30 of each, though a few only have bananas or story beats.
Top Secret Highlights by Layer
Groove Layer
Start a disco party with the Fractones by solving their light puzzle. This unlocks a shortcut to the next layer and gives a rare fossil.
Freezer Layer
Repair the cooling system to access a hidden freezer vault with a skill point Banandium cluster.
Radiance Layer
Restore the Synthetic Sun to reveal blocked tunnels in SL 1202–1204. Some Banandium only appears after light is restored.
Planet Core
Hidden paths lead to extra fights and lore bits. SL 1605–1609 are packed with secrets that require late-game powers to reach.
Final Blurb
Donkey Kong Bananza hides dozens of secrets in every layer, from branching paths and transformations to post-game treasure hunts. If you want 100% completion, unlock Sonar early, revisit old areas with new powers, and use Warp Gongs often.
The final challenge isn't just beating the boss; it’s finding every last banana and fossil buried in the depths.
FAQ
How many secrets are in Donkey Kong Bananza?
There are over 1,400 total collectibles, many hidden behind transformation skills or post-game access.
Do I need to find everything to beat the game?
No, only the main path is required. But secrets reward skill points, upgrades, and lore.
Are some collectibles missable?
Nothing is permanently missable. All areas reopen after the final level using Warp Gongs.
What’s the hardest secret to find?
Some Planet Core fossils are only visible with maxed Sonar and require high-tier Punch Power.
Can you track secrets in each layer?
Yes, the map tracks found Banandium and fossils. Sonar and treasure maps help you locate the rest.
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