Several of the titular species from the Pikmin series make a cameo in one level of each world (counting Petal Isles and Castle Bowser separately):

• In Piranha Plants on Parade, a Red Pikmin can be found lounging on a hill past the course's normal exit goal pole.
• In Condarts Away!, an Ice Pikmin can be found skating in a sealed off alcove near the start of the stage.
• In Downpour Uproar, a trio of Blue Pikmin can be found gathered in the background in one room underwater.
• In The Midway Trial: Hop to It, a Purple Pikmin can be found at the end of the stage trying to lift the flagpole.
• In Rolling-Ball Hall, a pair of Rock Pikmin can be found buried in the snow.
• In Light-Switch Mansion, a pair of Glow Pikmin can be found floating by a window in the background.
• In Deep Magma Bog Observatory #4, a pair of Winged Pikmin can be found pollinating flowers inside the building.
• In High-Voltage Gauntlet, a Yellow Pikmin can be founding standing by a conductive rod in the dark.
• In The Final Test: Wonder Gauntlet, a trio of White Pikmin can be found standing on a stone wall in the background at the Missile Meg section.