The Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams deployed alongside SANParks rangers successfully rescued three German tourists stranded on Table Mountain in a dramatic late-night operation, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The group, aged between 22 and 24, had embarked on the popular India Venster hiking trail on Friday afternoon, hoping to reach the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Upper Cable Station. However, as conditions worsened with the onset of darkness, they chose safety over ambition.
The trio began their hike around 3:30pm but soon found themselves in a precarious situation as cold, misty weather enveloped the mountain and visibility plummeted.
Recognising the risks, they made the prudent decision to call for help instead of attempting to scramble up to the notoriously tricky Fountain Ledge.
They dialled the emergency number 021 937 0300 marking the beginning of a coordinated rescue operation.
According to WSAR spokesperson David Nel, the hikers were well-prepared for their adventure, armed with extra clothing, food, and water, all of which proved vital in maintaining their safety while waiting for help.
‘Their foresight indeed played a crucial role in ensuring they could withstand the harsh conditions until our teams could reach them,’ Nel remarked.
As rescue teams battled through the treacherous combination of strong winds and poor visibility, determination propelled them toward the stranded hikers.
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Their efforts paid off as they managed to locate the group and guide them safely down from the mountain. The rescue operation was concluded successfully at 12:27am on Saturday morning a culmination of teamwork and expert navigation amidst challenging circumstances.
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Picture: WSAR / Facebook
