Rescue team urge hikers to consider weather changes
An 18-year-old Russian tourist was rescued on Friday afternoon after spending a cold and wet night alone in the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve near Stellenbosch, following an emergency during a solo hike on the challenging Panorama Circuit Trail.
The teenager, who had researched Cape Town hiking routes online, began his hike at 10h00 on Thursday. While he was equipped for the trail under normal conditions, he did not anticipate the intensity of the rainfall or how significantly it would transform the landscape.
Photo: Nic Shaw
By late afternoon, worsening weather had turned paths into shallow streams and rendered some sections of the trail impassable. His route was ultimately blocked by a torrent of water surging down the mountain. Unable to proceed, he attempted to retrace his steps. At approximately 16h00, he managed to send a message to a friend saying he was tired and in trouble.
Using GPS data from his last known phone location, a search team was dispatched into the reserve. Photo: Rob Nel
His phone battery died before he could share more details.
With no shelter and temperatures dropping overnight, the resourceful hiker sought refuge among rocks, using the natural cover to protect himself from the harsh conditions.
Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) Western Cape, along with members from CapeNature, mobilized more than 20 volunteers and professionals when the alarm was raised on Friday morning. Using GPS data from his last known phone location, a search team was dispatched into the reserve.
The operation was concluded at 16:28 on Friday.
Photo: Alfred Thorpe
At 14h44 on Friday, the hiker was found near the entrance of the reserve.
After spending the night outdoors, he began retracing his steps at first light and slowly made his way back toward safety.
He was assessed on site by a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic, treated for hypothermia, and then transported to hospital for further medical care.
The operation was concluded at 16:28 on Friday.
According to David Nel, a spokesperson for Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR): “This incident highlights how quickly things can go wrong in the mountains. The mountains are beautiful, but they demand respect and preparation.
“We strongly encourage all outdoor enthusiasts to take weather warnings seriously and prioritize safety at all times. Always review the weather forecast before heading out. If conditions look risky, delay your hike.
“Never hike alone. Being with others can be lifesaving in emergencies.
“Be prepared. Wear appropriate clothing, carry enough food and water, and have essential emergency gear with you. Know your limits. Choose trails that match your fitness and experience level.
“Most importantly, always have the correct emergency number on hand – 021 937 0300.
“We are deeply grateful to our incredible rescue teams for their tireless dedication and swift response, and we extend our best wishes to the hiker for a full and speedy recovery,” said Nel.
- Save and share the correct Emergency Contact Number – 021 937 0300
- Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) is a network of government agencies, and civilian volunteer organisations, who partner in search and rescue.