As anticipation builds for the upcoming 12th season of the long-running reality series Tropika Island of Treasure, beverage brand Tropika has unveiled an ambitious companion show that will take viewers on a global search for the franchise’s next tropical playground.
The new series, titled Tropika Island Search, will see television personality Zanele Potelwa travel to some of the world’s most picturesque island destinations as she hunts for the ideal location for the reality competition’s 12th instalment.
The announcement follows last week’s reveal of the star-studded celebrity cast set to compete in the new season of the show.
The line-up includes rapper Nadia Nakai, Olympic champion Caster Semenya, former rugby player Francois Hougaard, actress Leandie du Randt, actor Sandile Mahlangu, media personality Amanda du-Pont, model Lalela Mswane and actor Wiseman Mncube.
In the new travel-style series, Potelwa will be joined by a rotating group of former contestants who will help assess potential filming locations for the show.
The scouting team includes Hungani Ndlovu, Shashi Naidoo, Bobby van Jaarsveld, Nay Maps, Jonathan Boynton-Lee, Nqobile Khwezi and Chad Jones.
Together, they will visit a range of tropical destinations including Mauritius, Antalya and Phuket, as well as Bali, Mombasa, La Réunion and Vietnam.
Each episode will see the team explore beaches, resorts and cultural landmarks while evaluating each destination’s scenic appeal, adventure potential and suitability for the show’s signature challenges. The process will ultimately determine which location becomes the backdrop for the upcoming season.
According to Miantha Roux, Business Unit Head of Beverages at Clover, the new format is designed to bring viewers closer to the production process.
With Tropika Island Search, we are essentially opening the curtains and inviting our viewers into the boardroom and onto the plane with us,” Roux said.
“This expansion allows us to showcase the sheer scale of the Tropika Island of Treasure property. It’s not just about the final destination; it’s about the journey, the adventure, and the high standards we set to ensure Season 12 is our most visually spectacular yet.”
Sveti Kovatcheva, Brand Manager for Dairy Fruit Mix at Clover, said bringing former contestants into the scouting process celebrates the community built around the franchise.
“Taking seven of our most beloved past contestants on this global scout is a tribute to the ‘Smoooth’ family we’ve built over the years,” Kovatcheva said.
“By exploring destinations like Vietnam, Bali and Antalya, we are bringing a world of inspiration to our audience before the first challenge even begins.”
Meanwhile, Dichaba Phalatse, Marketing Manager for SABC Video Entertainment, said the show aligns with the broadcaster’s commitment to strong local entertainment.
“We’re thrilled to launch Tropika Island Search on S3,” Phalatse said.
“With the vibrant Zanele Potelwa at the helm, the show takes viewers on an exciting journey across seven tropical destinations alongside some of the most memorable winners from the Tropika Island of Treasure franchise. It’s a fun, feel-good adventure that blends travel, nostalgia and competition, and it perfectly reflects S3’s commitment to being the home of some of South Africa’s best local content.”
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star