The Bali Chapter: Nqobile Khwezi and Zanele Potelwa Explored Bali as the Tropika Island of Treasure Search Has Wrapped Up

As the search for the perfect setting for Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12 continued for the last time, this week’s Tropika Island Search episode whisked viewers off to the lush, soul-soothing landscapes of Bali, Indonesia.

Joining the journey was model, TV personality and former Tropika Island of Treasure contestant Nqobile Khwezi, who set out to see if the famed “Island of the Gods” striked the right balance between calm escape and competitive edge.

Teaming up with host Zanele Potelwa, Nqobile immersed herself in Bali’s rich culture — from the tranquil rice terraces of Ubud to adrenaline-filled ATV rides and elevated cycling adventures. It was a full-circle moment for her, having faced the show’s intense challenges in Zanzibar back in 2024. This time around, she brought a seasoned perspective, scouting a destination that can deliver both dreamy escapism and high-stakes action.

As the final island on the Tropika Island Search journey, Nqobile also shared her personal connection to Bali, along with travel tips and why she believes this Indonesian hotspot could be the perfect pick for the next season.

Here’s what she had to say in this Q&A:

1. Nqobile, you have done your fair share of travelling. What are some of your favourite destinations and why?

“I have been really lucky to travel quite a bit, and one of my favourite destinations has to be Milan in Italy. I love it because it’s such a perfect mix of fashion, culture, and amazing food. It just feels very aligned with my lifestyle. That said, I’m also a big island girl. There’s something about being near the ocean, the slower pace, and that sense of escape that I will always gravitate towards. Bali is really special to me as well, especially because it’s one of the destinations featured in ‘Eat Pray Love’ by Elizabeth Gilbert, which is one of my favourite books. I have always been drawn to the sense of spirituality and self-discovery connected to it, and experiencing that in real life made it even more meaningful,” said Nqobile.

2. You visited Bali with Zanele Potelwa on the search for the next Island Of Treasure. What makes it a perfect destination for a reality show like this?

“Bali is honestly perfect for a show like Tropika Island of Treasure. It has such diverse landscapes, from beaches to jungles to rice fields, which makes it visually incredible on camera. It also offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, so you can really push contestants out of their comfort zones while still capturing those beautiful, escapist moments. The energy there is just so vibrant, which translates really well on screen,” said Nqobile.

3. Bali is an incredibly popular destination for South Africans. Why do you think so many of us flock there?

“I think Bali just ticks all the boxes. It’s relatively affordable compared to a lot of other international destinations, but still gives you that luxury experience. The people are warm, the culture is rich, the food is amazing, and there’s so much to do, whether you want to relax or be adventurous. It’s one of those places where you really feel like you’re getting value for your experience,” said Nqobile.

4. The Indonesian culture is wonderful. Tell us a bit about your time visiting the temples in Bali.

“Visiting the temples in Bali was such a grounding experience. There’s a real sense of spirituality and respect in the way everything is done, from the daily offerings to the architecture. It makes you slow down and be present. It actually reminded me of the essence of ‘Eat Pray Love’, that idea of reconnecting with yourself, and I really appreciated being able to experience that firsthand,” said Nqobile.

5. If you had just 24 hours to help a friend experience Bali, what would your must-do itinerary look like?

“I would start the day early with a sunrise breakfast overlooking the rice fields, then do a quick temple visit to experience the culture. Midday, I’d go for something fun like an ATV ride or ziplining to get that adrenaline in. Lunch would be somewhere with a beautiful ocean view, followed by some chill time at a beach club. Then I would end the day with a sunset dinner. The Bali sunsets are unreal, so that’s a must,” said Nqobile.

6. What are a few travel hacks you can share with us?

“Pack versatile outfits that you can dress up or down. It saves so much space. Always download offline maps and have your key bookings saved on your phone. I also think it’s important to plan your must-do activities, but leave room for spontaneity because some of the best experiences happen that way. Oh, and comfort is key, especially when you’re moving around a lot,” said Nqobile.

7. Tell us a bit about your experience on Tropika Island of Treasure. What were some of the highlights?

“Being on Tropika Island of Treasure in Zanzibar in 2024 was such a defining experience for me. It really pushed me mentally and physically, and forced me to adapt quickly in high-pressure situations. Some of the biggest highlights were definitely the challenges, they are intense, but also so rewarding, and the connections I made along the way. It’s one of those experiences that stays with you,” said Nqobile.

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

“Be yourself – genuinely. People can tell when you are trying too hard or putting on a persona. Show your personality, your energy, and what makes you different. Also, don’t be afraid to showcase your strengths, whether that’s fitness, creativity, or storytelling. Finally, keep it engaging. You want whoever is watching to remember you,” said Nqobile.

Auditions for Tropika Island of Treasure Season 12 now open!

While the decision 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.

Ready for the grand reveal?

While the scouting process has taken fan-favourite past contestants to some of the most breathtaking corners of the globe, the wait to find out which island has been chosen for the upcoming 12th season of the show is almost over. Stay tuned to @MyTropika on social media to find out which island will host the next group of celebrities and contestants in their quest for fame and fortune.

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