It's not exactly like the SNES version, but it's still a great remake nonetheless.
This GBA version holds true to what the original was all about, but a few changes have been made that might disappoint fans. For example, certain sound effects have changed - i.e. enemy noises, remixed soundtracks, etc.
Another thing are some rebuilt environments. Take Donkey's tree house for instance. It looks nothing like the original. Cranky's hut has changed as well. The original opening sequence is gone too; the one where Cranky is playing an old record and Donkey knocks him off the tree. It's little stuff like that which I think was what made DKC so popular in the first place. But still...
I gotta say, though, that this game looks great, despite the map changes and all. Plenty to see and do here in the form of mini games like Funky's Fishing or Candy's Dance Studio. But like I said, the SNES version is probably still the greatest version namely because it retains those memorable sights and sounds we grew up with as children. Don't get me wrong, this is a fun little port/remake of a classic title. It has a great nostalgia effect for veterans of the series.
Graphics: 7.5/10
Gameplay: 8/10
Controls: 9/10
Overall Experience: 8/10