Dedicated teams of professionals and volunteers from Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) were sent to Hout Bay after a group of stranded hikers called for help late on Saturday afternoon.
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The group of four started the hike from Llandudno at 10am on Saturday, intending to traverse the rugged Karbonkelberg coastline, past the Boss 400 shipwreck, and finish in Hout Bay.
However, the tide was against them, and the group was forced up the side of the mountain by the high tide. They became lost while looking for a suitable trail high above the shore.
A call was made to the emergency number shortly before 5pm, after it became clear that they were stuck.
While ground teams gathered at the Hout Bay NSRI base, a small team on board the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter was flown to the scene.
Once the helicopter crew had located the hikers, the rescue team, including a paramedic and a rescue climber, were hoisted down to the stranded hikers.
According to a spokesperson for Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR), David Nel, ‘The rescuers reported that the group were completely “cliffed out”. They were high up on the mountain, with no way to safely proceed, up or down.’
‘They were covered in scratches from bundu-bashing through the thick vegetation.’
‘All four hikers were safely hoisted from the ledge and flown to a landing zone at the Hout Bay NSRI base. The incident was concluded shortly after 6:30pm.’
‘This is a very challenging piece of coastline. The path is badly eroded in places, with steep exposed sections. The tide affects access to several parts of the trail, so careful planning is required.’
‘We ask that all outdoor enthusiasts keep to the trails.’
‘Make sure to pack warm clothing and a torch.’
‘If you’re worried or feel unsafe, rather call for help sooner,’ Nel said.
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Pictures: WSAR, Carlo Garth Adonis, Rob Burger and Mountain Club of SA – Search And Rescue / Facebook