Skeem Saam Actor Hungani Ndlovu Explored Thailand with Zanele Potelwa for the Next Season Of Tropika Island of Treasure

As excitement builds for the 12th season of Tropika Island of Treasure, viewers were recently given a tantalising preview of a potential new paradise.

Skeem Saam star and the show’s Season 11 winner Hungani Ndlovu jetted into Thailand alongside charismatic host Zanele Potelwa in the latest episode of Tropika Island Search, setting the stage for a possible next chapter of the hit reality series.

On a mission to determine whether Thailand could play host to the upcoming season, Hungani dove headfirst into the destination’s rich culture, striking landscapes and unmistakable island energy—an experience that left a lasting impression from the moment he arrived.

From the eye-catching buzz of Patong’s lively markets to the postcard-perfect calm of Maya Bay’s turquoise waters, Hungani explored it all, soaking up the atmosphere while imagining how a new group of contestants might take on the terrain. Fresh off his shared R1 million victory in Zanzibar, he brings a seasoned perspective on what truly makes a location worthy of the “Treasure” title.

Now, let’s hear directly from Hungani as he reflects on his Thai adventure in this Q&A:

1. Hungani, you visited the beautiful country of Thailand on this week’s episode of Tropika Island Search. What was your very first impression of Thailand the moment you arrived?

“Thailand is such an interesting place. On arrival, the heat and humidity hit you immediately, but I guess it’s part of the charm. The people are kind and welcoming, definitely living up to its reputation as the ‘Land of Smiles.’ I was really excited to explore the tropical island and enjoyed the local food the stunning beaches,” said Hungani.

2. What, in your opinion, makes it the perfect island pick for the 12th season of Tropika Island Of Treasure?

“I believe Thailand is the ideal choice for Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12 because it’s got diverse beaches and the heat and humidity will challenge contestants to their limits. The tropical environment also offers numerous creative opportunities for challenges. Thailand has great potential to make this season memorable,” said Hungani.

3. South Africans love a Thailand holiday. From the turquoise beaches to the beautiful scenery, the culture and the food. Why do you think so many people are drawn to this place?

“I think, culturally, we are not too far off. There’s a similar warmth and way of greeting people. The food is really good, with so much variety, and the local markets have great deals! Getting around by mopeds or tuk-tuks adds to the experience, and with the Rand stronger than the Thai Baht, it’s also a very affordable trip,” said Hungani.

4. If you had 24 hours to help a friend truly experience the magic of Thailand, what would your itinerary look like?

“I have got your perfect itinerary! Breakfast by 07h00; Phi Phi Island by 08h30; Maya Bay by 10h30; Lunch at Phi Phi Island at 12h00; Patong Beach at 14h00; Dinner & Shopping at Chillva Market from 16h30 – 19h30; Club time at Fuga Beach Club from 21h00 – 00h00,” said Hungani.

5. Thai food is world-famous. What was the most memorable meal you had, and where?

“I really enjoyed lunch at Phi Phi Island, but the most memorable thing was enjoying a fresh Mango Shake throughout the day! Every day!,” said Hungani.

6. You won the previous season of Tropika Island Of Treasure which took place in Zanzibar. What was that moment like for you?

“Winning TIOT Season 11 in Zanzibar was truly life changing. Sharing the R1 Million prize with my partner, Dimakatso Calisa, and each walking away with a Suzuki Jimny was truly priceless. Since then, my life has evolved in the best way. I have pushed myself mentally, physically, and psychologically, taking on challenges that have helped me grow beyond anything I expected,” said Hungani.

7. You had quite the experience on the show. Why should people consider entering a reality show like Tropika Island Of Treasure?

“I think people should consider entering the new season of Tropika Island Of Treasure because it’s truly life changing if you commit fully. The challenges push you physically and mentally, and while luck plays a role, strategy matters too. Whether you win or not, it changes how you think and how you talk to yourself. At the end of the day, it tests you in ways you never imagined, and you will come out grateful that you did it,” said Hungani.

8.Tell us a little bit about your time as a contestant on Tropika Island Of Treasure last season.

“My experience on Tropika Island Of Treasure was incredible – and not just because I won. I got to make new friends and connect with people I would not normally meet, in some of the most interesting ways. From building relationships to growing personally, it was a journey of self-belief. I started at the bottom and ended up at the top, and while strategy played a role, there was also a very “Jesus Take The Wheel!” element to the journey. Overall, it was an experience I will never forget,” said Hungani.

9. Auditions for the new season are now open. What advice do you have for contestants wanting to stand out with their entry video?

“My advice would be to just be yourself, showcase your personality, your creativity, and ultimately why someone would love to have you as a partner. No one is perfect, so people should not strive to position themselves in that manner,” said Hungani.

Auditions for Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12 now open!

While the search for the perfect island destination begins, Tropika is also looking for eight smoooth members of the public to join the season 12 celebrities on the island. Think you have what it takes to compete? 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 are open until 5 May 2026.

Tropika Island Search airs every Monday at 18:00 on S3 with a repeat every Friday at 16:00 on SABC 1.

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