Rescue teams save stranded hikers on Table Mountain after cableway closure

Two hikers were rescued from steep, exposed terrain high above Camps Bay on Sunday afternoon after becoming stranded while descending from Table Mountain.

Technical rescue teams from Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR), including paramedics from Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS, were dispatched after the pair – aged 30 and 39 – found themselves cliffed-out and unable to continue safely.

According to WSAR spokesperson David Nel, the hikers had started their hike up Platteklip Gorge on Sunday morning and planned to return via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway.

However, when the cableway service was suspended due to strong winds, they opted to descend via the India Venster trail.

Partway down, the hikers lost the marked route and continued descending directly towards Camps Bay. The terrain became increasingly steep and exposed, eventually leaving them stranded on a ledge with no safe way to proceed or retreat.

Recognising the danger, they stopped and called the emergency number, 021 937 0300.

Nel praised their decision. “This incident clearly demonstrates our SAFE campaign in action – the hikers Stopped, Assessed the terrain and their options, Formulated a plan and Executed that plan by calling for help.

“By stopping early and not attempting to continue, they avoided a potentially critical fall and allowed rescue teams to respond before the situation escalated.

“Calling the emergency number as soon as they felt unsafe was the right decision and it played a key role in ensuring a safe and positive outcome.”

Rescuers used ropes to access the ledge, assisted the hikers into harnesses and raised them back to safer ground. Once secure, they were given water and snacks before being carefully guided down to the lower cable station.

The operation concluded at 7:44pm, with all role-players safely off the mountain.

Nel said the rescue highlighted the importance of preparation and sound decision-making in mountain environments.

“This rescue is a clear example of why careful decision-making and situational awareness are so important in the mountains. Recognising when to stop can make all the difference in preventing accidents and ensuring everyone gets home safely.

“Sticking to marked trails and calling for help as soon as you feel unsafe are simple steps that can prevent situations from escalating and keep everyone safe.

“The hikers’ calm and sensible approach, combined with the skill and coordination of the rescue teams, ensured a safe outcome and highlights the importance of preparation, awareness and teamwork in mountain environments.”

WSAR urged hikers to remember the SAFE principle in an emergency: Stop, Assess, Formulate a plan and Execute it.

Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel.

Cape Argus