Three foreign hikers were safely assisted from Table Mountain on Tuesday evening after darkness left them stranded.
The three women, two from Norway and one from Denmark, began their hike from Kloof Corner at approximately 17h30, ascending via the India Venster route. They reached Fountain Ledge but wisely decided to turn around at the scramble section.
Unfortunately, as the three were retreating back down the trail darkness slowly overtook them.
Realising they were now navigating more by optimism than by sight, the hikers did the right thing and called – 021 937 0300, for assistance.
A small rescue team was dispatched, quickly located the party and guided them safely down to the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway lower cable station.
The operation wrapped up at 22h35, with the hikers safe and now armed with a story that’s definitely more exciting than originally planned.
As the seasons begin to change and daylight hours grow shorter, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are reminded that while the views are world-class, the sunset doesn’t wait for anyone.
Start early, plan ahead and always pack a torch or headlamp, just in case your adventure runs a little longer than planned.
A huge thank you to our teams for their calm, quick response, and for proving once again that even when darkness thinks it’s winning, our rescuers are always one step ahead.
• Delta Search & Rescue
• HAMNET
• High Angle Rescue & Access
• K9 Search and Rescue Association of South Africa
• Mountain Club of SA - Search And Rescue
• Off-Road Rescue Unit - ORRU
• SARZA - Western Cape
• Trail SAR
• Save and share the correct Emergency Contact Number - 021 937 0300
• Please support us - https://wsar.org.za/support-us/
• Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) is a network of government agencies, and civilian volunteer organisations, who partner in search and rescue.
Photo by Chris Jacobs