CAPE TOWN – A weekend hiker tragically lost his life following a fall near Bailey’s Kloof in Muizenberg on Sunday 29 December despite swift rescue efforts by Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams and emergency medical services.
The incident was one of three separate rescue operations conducted across the Cape Peninsula on Sunday, highlighting the ongoing risks faced by outdoor enthusiasts during the busy holiday season.
The Muizenberg rescue began on Sunday morning when WSAR teams were called to assist a hiker who had fallen several metres while scrambling above a trail near Bailey’s Kloof.
The hiker was found critically injured and in need of immediate medical attention.
A specialised team aboard the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS/Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter was quickly deployed to the remote location.
Rescuers worked swiftly to stabilise the patient while a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic provided advanced medical care on site.
The injured hiker was airlifted to hospital, but despite the best efforts of rescue and medical personnel, he later died.
WSAR expressed condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.
Lion’s head rescue
Earlier the same morning, rescue teams responded to another incident at Lion’s Head involving a 52-year-old visitor from Bloemfontein.
The woman mis-stepped and fell while descending from the summit.
Rescuers aboard the rescue helicopter were hoisted down to her location, where she was assessed and treated by a paramedic before being flown to a nearby landing zone and transported to hospital by ambulance.
In a third incident later Sunday afternoon, two stranded British hikers aged 27 and 28 required assistance below the Kloof Corner hiking trail.
The pair became disoriented after deviating from the India Venster trail and called for help when they were unable to continue safely.
A specialised trail runner was deployed to locate the hikers and successfully guided them back down the mountain shortly before 20:00.
Safety reminder
The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of hiking safety and preparedness.
WSAR reminds outdoor enthusiasts to stay on marked trails, carry emergency equipment, and inform others of their planned routes.
