WSAR: Brazilian and Dutch hiker rescued from CPT mountains

Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams were activated twice on Monday following two separate incidents involving injured visiting hikers on popular trails in Cape Town.

The incidents come as the wet winter season approaches, with recent rainfall leaving mountain paths wet, slippery and more hazardous than usual.

Officials have warned that mud, loose rock and slick surfaces are significantly increasing the risk of slips, falls and injuries, even on well-travelled routes. Descending sections, in particular, pose a heightened danger due to steep gradients, reduced visibility of footing and fatigue.

“We strongly advise extra caution, especially on descents, where tired legs, reduced visibility of footing and steeper gradients combine to make slips far more likely,” said WSAR in a statement

The first incident occurred shortly before midday on Lion’s Head on Monday, where a 28-year-old Brazilian visitor slipped and fell near the summit. Due to the terrain and the nature of her injuries, an aerial response was reportedly initiated.

According to WSAR spokesperson, David Nel, a medic assessed and treated the patient on scene before she was airlifted by a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service rescue helicopter to a nearby landing zone. She was then transported by ambulance to the hospital.

wsar

Later that afternoon, rescuers were reportedly called to Silvermine Nature Reserve, where a 24-year-old Dutch hiker injured his leg after stepping awkwardly. A rescue team was flown directly to the scene, and after treatment by a paramedic, the patient was airlifted to a landing zone before being taken to the hospital by ambulance.

Authorities are urging outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution, move slowly on descents, test footing carefully and adjust plans according to the challenging conditions.

“We extend sincere thanks to all responding teams, air support crews, medics, and volunteers whose coordinated efforts ensured both hikers received rapid care.”