In just two days, rescue teams sprang into action to help hikers in distress across several parts of the Western Cape. A total of five separate emergencies unfolded over the weekend, putting the skills and commitment of mountain rescue workers to the test.
The first call for help came early Saturday when a 56-year-old woman slipped along a remote trail near Berg River Dam. Hiking with friends, she couldn’t continue, and help was urgently summoned. After being treated on the spot, she was placed on a stretcher and carefully carried across a river to safety.
Almost at the same time, a 32-year-old woman became too exhausted to finish her hike through the forest near Kirstenbosch. Emergency workers and rangers quickly reached her, assessed her condition, and carried her down safely.
Later that evening, two women lost their way while hiking in the Helderberg Nature Reserve. As night fell and park gates prepared to close, they called for assistance. Luckily, they were found in good condition and guided back to the entrance without injury.
The rescues didn’t end there. On Sunday afternoon, an American tourist injured himself while coming down the steep Platteklip Gorge. Although hurt, he was able to walk with assistance after being treated by a paramedic on the trail.
In a final incident late Sunday, reports came in that two vehicles had veered off-road near a campsite in the Cederberg mountains. Rescue teams were mobilized, but the situation was soon resolved by local crews on the ground.
Throughout the weekend, the rescuers’ professionalism and care were on full display. They navigated rivers, forests, and rugged terrain to bring people to safety. Their efforts serve as a powerful reminder of how essential these rescue teams are for those who venture into the Western Cape’s wild spaces.
To everyone involved in these rescues, deep gratitude was expressed — and heartfelt wishes were extended to those recovering from their injuries.