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A 41-year-old hiker died after falling 40 metres from a section of a hiking trail at the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve near Stellenbosch on Friday (1 March).
In a statement released by the Mountain Club of SA: Search and Rescue (MSAR), it is understood the hiker and his partner had endeavoured the Tweede Waterval Trail earlier that day and were making their way back down the path to their vehicle.
The hiker reportedly slipped from the trail on the side of steep slopes above a river and fell approximately 40 metres.
“The steep-sided valley has no cellphone reception and passing hikers assisted by racing down the trail to raise alarm,” the statement says.
“An MSAR team, responding as part of a Cape Department of Health & Wellness EMS-coordinated rescue, along with several other organisations, including Cape Nature Rangers, Stellenbosch Fire & Rescue personnel and Delta SAR responded to the scene.”
MSAR said a rescue team hiked up the trail and set up a rope system to locate and access the fallen hiker.
“Unfortunately, he was found to have succumbed to his injuries. His body was placed on a stretcher and carefully raised back up to the hiking trail before being carried down the 5 km path and handed over to the police.”
The incident was concluded in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Meanwhile, the Western Cape Emergency and Medical Services has called on all hikers to take the necessary precautions when embarking on hiking trails, especially the more challenging ones.
“We strongly advise all hikers to familiarise themselves with their chosen trails and ensure they wear appropriate gear for safety, minimising the risk of injury,” Western Cape EMS spokesperson Megan Davids told Paarl Post.
“Additionally, it’s crucial to consider weather conditions for proper hydration. Please carry sufficient water for the duration of your hike or seek assistance from a park ranger for guidance.
