Foreign hikers caught off guard in busy Table Mountain rescue weekend

Excitement turned to urgency as Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams were called to assist a series of hikers facing unanticipated challenges on Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain this past weekend, reports Cape {town} Etc.

Despite its breathtaking views, the mountain proved once again that its trails can transform a delightful expedition into a tale of survival and resilience.

The first incident unfolded on the Three Firs Trail above Camps Bay, where a British visitor found himself grappling with a panic attack amid the trail’s steep drops.

‘His wife reported that he was unable to continue, an understandable reaction for anyone discovering mid-hike that Table Mountain has far more ‘airy bits’ than the brochures might suggest,’ explained WSAR spokesperson David Nel.

With some encouragement and careful steps, the couple managed to navigate their way back down the trail safely, prompting the team to stand down by 12:30pm.

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Meanwhile, at Platteklip Gorge, rescue teams, including personnel from Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS, were dispatched to assist a 66-year-old visitor from Northern Ireland who was struggling with the arduous ascent.

Joining a group of six spirited hikers, she had started her climb a tad too late, not taking the sweltering summer afternoon into account.

After receiving electrolytes and water, the group was escorted back to the upper cable station, concluding the operation at 5:25pm.

Sunday’s dramatic events didn’t stop there. A small WSAR team, accompanying members of SANParks – Table Mountain National Park, launched a late-night rescue at the Upper Cable Station.

Three Dutch students, having embarked on a later-than-intended hike from Kirstenbosch via Skeleton Gorge, found themselves stranded as night descended, trapping them at the summit when the cableway closed.

Understanding the dangers of navigating the treacherous trails after dark, they opted to remain at the top. Upon reaching them, rescuers supplied warm clothing and torches before safely guiding the students across the mountain to waiting vehicles, wrapping up the rescue operation by 1:15am on Monday morning.

These incidents serve as poignant reminders of the unpredictability inherent in outdoor activities, especially on formidable terrains like Table Mountain.

Nel emphasised the importance of preparation: ‘Starting early, carrying sufficient water and warm clothing, bringing a torch for late descents, and knowing when to pause can make all the difference.’