From the creative minds behind the hit Listing franchise comes a brand-new way to see our beautiful country. Hidden Gems South Africa is officially launching on BBC Lifestyle (DStv channel 174) on Wednesday, 6 May 2026 at 20:00. If you miss the premiere, you can catch the repeats every Thursday at 17:00.
This five-episode journey follows six “gem-fluencers” and their companions as they traverse South Africa to uncover ten untouched luxury escapes. From the lush greenery of Skukuza to the majestic peaks of Winterton and the rugged beauty of the Cederberg desert, this series is a masterclass in bucket-list travel.
You Hold the Power
This isn’t just a show to watch – it’s a show to influence. At the end of each episode, the power shifts to the viewers. You get to vote for your favorite hidden gem experience, and by doing so, you could walk away with some incredible prizes.
Every week, voters enter a draw to win a R10,000 LekkeSlaap voucher. After the final winner is crowned in a special sixth episode on 8 July at 20:00, one lucky voter will snag the grand prize: a R25,000 LekkeSlaap voucher. The influencer whose destination wins the hearts of the public will also receive a R25,000 voucher.
Meet the Hidden Gems South Africa Influencers
The heart of the Hidden Gems South Africa lies in the diverse perspectives of our local content creators:
Tebogo Pin-Pin (@tebogo_pinpin): An award-winning travel writer known for his deep storytelling and meticulous local knowledge.
Linda Munnik (@lindahikessouthafrica): A hiking expert who brings a practical and honest approach to South Africa’s most scenic trails.
Senzelwe Mthembu (@senz_m): A storyteller whose artistic photography focuses on culturally rich and community-centered travel.
Rhett & Claire (@RhettandClaire): A dynamic duo creating cinematic guides that make planning the perfect trip a breeze.
Melissa Blanche (@itsmelissablanche): A filmmaker and photographer with a keen eye for luxury lodges and refined visual aesthetics.
A New Era of Local Travel
Producers Nico Nel and Trevor Kaplan of PD Production emphasize that Hidden Gems South Africa is built on authenticity, putting local creators at the center of the narrative. Pierre Cloete, VP for Africa at BBC Studios, adds that the series is a testament to the richness of South African storytelling and the extraordinary locations that remain undiscovered.
Hidden Gems South Africa is proudly sponsored by LekkeSlaap, in association with Toyota. Set your reminders – your next great adventure begins this May!
Watch this space for updates in the Television category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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