New Season, New Island: La Réunion Hosts Tropika Island of Treasure 12New Season, New Island: La Réunion to Host Tropika Island of Treasure 12. Picture: Supplied

Fellow South Africans, the wait is over!

After weeks of globe-trotting and uncovering some of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines on the Tropika Island Search companion series, Tropika has officially revealed that La Réunion will host the 12th season of Tropika Island of Treasure.

Following a search across several incredible destinations, La Réunion stood out for its striking natural beauty, unspoiled beaches, vibrant culture and rich history, all within easy reach of South Africa—just a four-hour flight away.

Set in the Indian Ocean, the island is famed for its lush forests, dramatic volcanic peaks and crystal-clear shores, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for what’s shaping up to be one of the show’s most exciting seasons yet.

Sashi Naidoo. Picture: Supplied
Sashi Naidoo. Picture: Supplied

Shashi Naidoo hails La Réunion as Season 12’s perfect stage

Season 2 winner and All Stars contestant Shashi Naidoo, who explored La Réunion during Tropika Island Search, says she’s excited to see the island take centre stage as the host of the upcoming season.

“The competitor in me is so happy that the island I scoped out on Tropika Island Search won and that the new season will be filmed in La Réunion. It has everything needed for an incredible season. Having been through the intensity of the challenges myself, I know that the terrain and the spirit of La Réunion are going to push our Season 12 contestants to their absolute limits while providing a backdrop that is nothing short of cinematic,” said Shashi.

The stunning mountain scenery of La Réunion. Picture: Supplied
The stunning mountain scenery of La Réunion. Picture: Supplied

Why La Réunion was the perfect pick

Sveti Kovatcheva, Brand Manager: Dairy Fruit Mix at Clover, says the island checked every box when it came to choosing the next destination for the iconic series.

“Choosing the right island is always a key part of bringing Tropika Island Of Treasure to life. Through Tropika Island Search, we were able to explore a range of incredible destinations, and La Réunion stood out for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and versatility. It offers everything we look for, from visually striking locations to opportunities for diverse and exciting challenges, and we’re confident it will set the stage for an unforgettable new season,” said Sveti.

Another stunning view of La Réunion. Picture: Supplied
Another stunning view of La Réunion. Picture: Supplied

Countdown on for Season 12!

With the destination now locked in, the countdown to the new season is officially on. While auditions are now closed, the hunt for the next million-rand winner is just getting underway.

Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12 will premiere on S3 later this year.

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By Asanda Mbayimbayi

Asanda Mbayimbayi is an award-winning Lifestyle & Entertainment News Editor and Journalist celebrated for her dynamic voice in digital lifestyle, entertainment, and hard news journalism. Honoured with the Galliova People’s Hero 2025 Award for her authentic storytelling and powerful connection with audiences, she continues to redefine journalism with purpose, empathy, and impact. With an instinct for uncovering stories that resonate and a deep understanding of audience engagement, Asanda brings clarity, depth, and heart to every piece she crafts. Beyond the newsroom, she wears many hats — Researcher, Qualified Bible Teacher, Content Creator, Producer, Motivational Speaker, and Book Editor to name a few — using her creative and spiritual insight to inspire transformation through words. Whether leading editorial teams, producing meaningful content, or motivating audiences, Asanda stands as a storyteller driven by faith, purpose, and the power of narrative to connect and inspire.