In a rescue operation late on Sunday afternoon, two exhausted international tourists were airlifted from the India Venster hiking trail on Table Mountain.
The tourists, aged 50 and 36 and hailing from China, had embarked on their hike earlier in the day after catching the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour of Cape Town to Table Mountain.
Their adventure took a challenging turn when they found themselves stranded about two-thirds of the way up the steep India Venster trail, unable to proceed further.
Fortunately, a passing hiker noticed the situation shortly before 5pm and promptly dialled the emergency number – 021 937 0300.
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Responding swiftly, a small team aboard the Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter was dispatched to the scene.
Hovering over the rugged terrain, the rescue team was lowered to a point close to the stranded visitors.
The rescuers assisted the tourists into rescue harnesses before hoisting them up into the waiting helicopter. Safely aboard, the tourists were swiftly flown to a nearby landing zone.
As visitors continue to head to Cape Town’s landmarks, authorities urge everyone to prioritise safety and adhere to trail guidelines to ensure enjoyable and incident-free experiences.
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Picture: Melchior Stander / Wilderness Search And Rescue WSAR Western Cape