Cape Town's hiking routes receive enhanced safety patrols to protect outdoor enthusiasts

A collaborative safety patrol was conducted on Saturday afternoon across three of Cape Town’s most popular hiking routes — Lion’s Head, Platteklip Gorge and India Venster — as authorities and volunteer groups joined forces to promote safer mountain use during hot conditions.

The joint initiative brought together representatives from SANParks – Table Mountain National Park, SANParks Honorary Rangers, Table Mountain Watch, the City of Cape Town Law Enforcement Tourism Unit and Wilderness Search And Rescue WSAR Western Cape (WSAR).

Teams hiked the routes, engaging directly with visitors to share important safety advice, encourage proper planning and ensure that the correct emergency number — 021 937 0300 — was saved on hikers’ phones.

With temperatures remaining high throughout the afternoon, patrol members assisted numerous hikers by topping up water bottles and reminding them of the importance of staying hydrated. Teams reported that several hikers had insufficient water for the conditions, and some had none at all.

Officials warned that heat-related injuries can have devastating consequences and urged hikers to take precautions when venturing into the wilderness during hot weather. They advised hikers to start early and avoid peak heat, carry sufficient water — at least two to three litres per person for a half-day hike and more for longer or steeper trails — and wear appropriate sun protection, including hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Visitors were also encouraged to dress in light, breathable clothing, pace themselves with regular rest breaks in shaded areas where possible, and remain alert to signs of heat stress such as dizziness, nausea or a rapid heartbeat.

A special thank you was extended to SPAR Palm Grove for its donation of water, and to the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway for assisting by ferrying team members to the top of the mountain in support of the operation.

Organisers said proactive patrols play an important role in promoting safe mountain use, helping to prevent incidents before they happen and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the mountain responsibly.

Additional volunteer and rescue organisations that participated in the operation included 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 and Trail SAR.

WSAR is a network of government agencies and civilian volunteer organisations that partner in search and rescue operations across the Western Cape.

Authorities urged the public to save and share the correct emergency contact number — 021 937 0300 — and encouraged those who are able to support rescue efforts through donations via the WSAR website.

Organisers said the visible presence of patrol teams and their collaborative approach help ensure that everyone visiting the mountain can do so safely and with confidence.

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Cape Argus