The race to find the next postcard-perfect location for Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12 has landed on the shores of Bali, Indonesia, and it’s bringing serious competition.
This week’s episode of Tropika Island Search sees model and TV personality Nqobile Khwezi join host Zanele Potelwa on a high-stakes mission to determine whether the famed “Island of the Gods” has what it takes to host the next season.
From the tranquil rice fields of Ubud to adrenaline-pumping ATV trails and sky-high cycling routes, Bali proves it’s more than just a pretty destination. For Khwezi, the journey is personal.
Having competed in the 2024 Zanzibar edition of the show, she returns with a sharper eye, this time not as a contestant but as a judge of what makes a winning island.
“Bali is honestly perfect for a show like Tropika Island of Treasure. It has such diverse landscapes, beaches, jungles, rice fields and that balance of adventure and relaxation. It pushes contestants while still delivering those beautiful, escapist moments viewers love.”
Affordability and luxury
It’s no surprise Bali continues to top travel wish lists for South Africans. According to Khwezi, the island offers a rare combination of affordability and luxury.
“It ticks all the boxes. You get incredible value for your experience, from the warm people and rich culture to the amazing food and endless activities.”
Beyond the visuals, it’s Bali’s spiritual depth that left a lasting impression. Visits to its sacred temples offered a moment of stillness amid the chaos of filming.
“There’s a real sense of respect and presence there. It forces you to slow down and reconnect.”
The island’s global allure has also been amplified by Eat Pray Love, a story Khwezi says deepened her own connection to the destination long before she arrived.
If given just 24 hours to showcase Bali, Khwezi doesn’t hesitate: sunrise breakfast overlooking rice fields, a temple visit, adrenaline-filled adventures, beachfront lunch, and a sunset dinner to close the day.
“The sunsets are unreal, that’s non-negotiable,” she says.
Her travel advice is practical: pack smart, download offline maps, and plan essentials, but leave space for spontaneity.
Reflecting on her own time on the show, Khwezi describes her Zanzibar experience as transformative.
“It pushed me mentally and physically. The challenges are intense, but the growth and connections you build stay with you.”
Now, with Season 12 auditions officially open, she has one clear message for hopeful contestants: authenticity wins.
“Be yourself. Don’t force it. Show your personality and your strengths, and make sure you’re memorable.”
As producers weigh up Bali’s potential as the next island playground, one thing is clear, the bar has been raised. And if Bali gets the final nod, viewers can expect a season that blends serenity with serious competition.
Auditions are open for eight members of the public to join celebrity contestants in what promises to be another high-stakes tropical showdown.
- Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12 is considering Bali, Indonesia, as the next filming location, evaluated in a new episode featuring host Zanele Potelwa and judge Nqobile Khwezi.
- Bali impresses with its diverse landscapes—rice fields, jungles, beaches, and adventure activities—balancing challenge and relaxation perfect for the show.
- Khwezi, a former contestant from the 2024 Zanzibar season, praises Bali’s mix of affordability, luxury, rich culture, and spiritual depth, highlighting its sacred temples and vibrant experiences.
- She recommends a 24-hour Bali itinerary with a sunrise breakfast, temple visit, adventure activities, beachfront lunch, and sunset dinner, emphasizing spontaneity alongside planning for travelers.
- Season 12 auditions are open, inviting eight public contestants to join celebrities; Khwezi advises authenticity as key, while the potential Bali season promises a blend of serene beauty and intense competition.
