British tourist rescued after ankle injury at Robberg Nature Reserve
Rosalind Innes, a visitor from the UK saved by field rangers from a daunting experience at Robberg Nature Reserve.
Image: CapeNature
A visit to the iconic Robberg Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area, a picturesque gem on South Africa's Garden Route, recently took a harrowing turn for a British tourist, Rosalind Innes. What was supposed to be a highlight of her travel itinerary escalated into a life-threatening ordeal, drawing an incredible response from the local rangers.
Innes had long dreamt of walking the scenic trails of Robberg. However, while navigating one of the narrow, rocky sections near the Point of Robberg, her adventure took a frightening twist. A slip on the rugged terrain resulted in a broken ankle, leaving her stranded in a secluded area as rapidly worsening weather set in.
With her mobility severely compromised, Rosalind and her husband faced a terrifying reality: they were alone and in need of urgent help. Confined to a painful position, her husband made swift decisions, alerting local trail maintenance worker Vuyani Charlie who was busy with routine boardwalk repairs nearby.
In the face of adversity, Vuyani quickly understood the severity of the situation and reassured the distressed couple he would return with help. He made his way to higher ground in search of a cell phone signal, successfully reaching CapeNature's field rangers, Charles Minnaar and Petrus Lamini, who were working on a different part of the island.
Rosalind Innes flanked by her rescuers Vuyani Charlie and Petrus Lamini.
Image: CapeNature
Despite being on a different assignment, Minnaar and Lamini responded promptly to the call for help. What followed was a challenging four-hour rescue mission that showcased their expertise, professionalism, and the essence of teamwork, showcasing their commitment to the safety of visitors. With slippery rocks and harsh winds complicating the terrain, the two rangers, alongside Vuyani Charlie, navigated the area with calmness and precision. They supported Rosalind’s injured leg while shielding her from the elements, demonstrating relentless determination to bring her to safety.
Reflecting on her traumatic experience, Innes expressed her gratitude.
“I truly do not know what I would have done without them. I owe them my life, particularly Vuyani Charlie, as I was simply not strong enough to get out on my own. They kept me calm and safe, and supported me both physically and mentally through a horrendous ordeal.”
Once safely evacuated from the reserve, Innes was transported to a local hospital where she received the care she urgently needed, marking a turning point in what had been a terrifying chapter of her South African journey.
Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature, commended the quick actions of the rangers. “Our field rangers are more than custodians of our natural heritage — they are protectors, guides, and often the first responders when things go wrong. Their rapid assessment, coordinated response, and sustained effort over several hours ensured the safe recovery and evacuation of a stranded hiker under challenging conditions. They turned a potentially devastating situation into a story of hope, resilience, and teamwork — quintessentially South African themes.”
Rosalind Innes being assisted by staff from Robberg Nature Reserve.
Image: CapeNature
For Innes, her unforgettable South African journey will not be marked by her fall but rather by the extraordinary kindness displayed by the strangers who became her heroes in her time of need.