Tropika is back! South Africa’s most iconic reality competition promises even more excitement this season. For over a decade, hundreds of thousands of South Africans have tuned in to this feel-good favorite, where public contestants team up with celebrities to tackle physical and mental challenges on a tropical island. With a R1 million cash prize on the line, the stakes are high, and the entertainment never stops.
Award-winning presenter and fan-favourite Zanele Potelwa returns to host the season, bringing her energy and charisma to guide the cast through the ultimate island showdown. Zanele is also nominated for a SAFTA nomination for Best TV Presenter this year, adding to the star power this season promises to bring. Joining her is a dynamic lineup of eight new celebrities ready to battle it out for glory, bragging rights, and the chance to claim the treasure.
Meet the eight celebrity contestants taking part in the upcoming 12th season of Tropika Island Of Treasure:
Nadia Nakai, Rapper
Award-winning rapper Nadia Nakai is one of the most influential voices in African hip-hop. Throughout her career, Nadia has released a string of hits, including singles like ‘Naaa Meaan’, ‘Money Back’, and ‘Practice.’ Nadia brings confidence, competitiveness, and main-character energy to the island.
Caster Semenya, Olympic Champion
Two-time Olympic gold medallist (800m, London 2012 and Rio 2016) and multiple World Championship gold medallist Caster Semenya is one of South Africa’s greatest athletes. Caster’s competitive spirit and discipline make her a formidable contender in any arena, including a tropical island.
Francois Hougaard, Rugby Star
Former Springbok scrumhalf Francois Hougaard has represented South Africa on some of rugby’s biggest stages, including the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
Hougaard, who also played for Worcester Warriors in England, is known for his speed, smart tactics, and unstoppable drive.
With elite athleticism and experience under pressure, he’s more than ready to tackle whatever physical and strategic challenges the island throws his way.
Leandie du Randt, Actress
Leandie du Randt is a South African actress, model, voice artist, and qualified psychometrist with a BCom in Industrial Psychology.
She’s starred in popular Afrikaans TV and films, inspires as a motivational speaker, and is a published author. In fact, it seems like there’s nothing Leandie can’t do. Her combination of grit and grace makes her a strategic competitor to watch this season.
Sandile Mahlangu, Actor and Singer
Sandile Mahlangu rose to fame as Sbu on Isibaya and became a household name as Siya on Netflix’s Blood & Water. While a respected actor, Sandile’s talent doesn’t stop there. He has also ventured into the world of music and has released a number of hit singles. Charismatic and effortlessly cool, Sandile’s adaptability and creativity could make him one of the most unpredictable players in the competition.
Amanda Du-Pont, Actress and Media Personality
A seasoned actress and television personality, Amanda Du-Pont’s elegance and competitive spirit have made her a fan favourite for years.
Amanda, known for Skeem Saam, Single Ladies SA, and the Netflix thriller Shadow, brings her acting, presenting, and producing skills and fierce competitive spirit to the island.
Lalela Mswane, Miss South Africa 2021
Lalela Mswane, Miss South Africa 2021, represented the country at Miss Universe and won Miss Supranational 2022. An advocate for education and empowerment, Lalela is known for her eloquence, grace, and leadership. Her work ethic, discipline, and strategic thinking give her a serious edge in competition.
Wiseman Mncube, Actor
Wiseman Mncube is one of South Africa’s most respected actors, best known for his award-winning role as Sbonelo on ‘Uzalo’. A SAFTA winner and accomplished storyteller, Wiseman is admired for his emotional depth and commanding performances. Calculated, observant and deeply strategic, Wiseman will certainly be a competitor to watch this season.
A New Journey to the Island
Ahead of the big premiere, viewers can also look forward to a brand-new companion TV show. In this special lead-up series, Zanele Potelwa will travel to seven smoooth island destinations alongside former ‘Tropika Island of Treasure’ celebrity contestants to find the perfect location for Season 12. ‘Tropika Island Search’ kicks off on Monday, 16 March at 18:00 on S3 with a repeat every Friday at 17:00 on SABC 1.
Auditions Are Officially Open
Tropika is on the hunt for eight smoooth members of the public to join the season 12 celebrities on the island. Think you have what it takes to compete alongside these celebrities? Upload your audition tape to either TikTok, Facebook, X or Instagram, tagging @MyTropika and using the hashtag #Tropika. Finalists will compete for the grand prize of a shared R1 million and receive a R10,000 shopping voucher from Pep to ensure they are island-ready in style.
Auditions close on 5 May 2026.
“Every season we strive to elevate the Tropika Island of Treasure experience, and Season 12 is no exception,” says Miantha Roux, Business Unit Head: Beverages at Clover. “By bringing together an all-star cast of this calibre and a brand-new companion show, we are bringing viewers an evolved version of the show they know and love.” With an incredible line-up of celebrities, the upcoming 12th season of Tropika Island of Treasure promises to be its smoothest, most unforgettable adventure yet.
