Two hikers found themselves in a dangerous situation on Table Mountain when strong winds forced the cable car to stop working. The rescue happened on Sunday, February 9, 2026, when the pair got stuck on steep cliffs above Camps Bay. Thanks to quick thinking and professional rescue teams, both hikers made it down safely.
The two hikers, aged 30 and 39, started their day with a simple plan. They walked up Table Mountain using the Platteklip Gorge trail. This is one of the most popular routes to reach the top. Their original idea was easy: hike up the mountain and take the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway back down. But nature had other plans for them.
When they reached the top, they discovered the cable car was not operating. Strong winds made it unsafe to run the cableway. The hikers needed a different way down. They decided to use the India Venster route instead. This trail goes down the mountain toward Camps Bay.
Things took a dangerous turn partway down. The hikers lost track of the marked trail. Instead of stopping, they kept walking in what they thought was the right direction toward Camps Bay. The ground became steeper and steeper with each step. Soon, they realized they were in serious trouble. They could not move forward safely. They also could not climb back up.
This situation is what rescue experts call being “cliffed out.” It means someone is stuck on steep rocks with no safe way to move in any direction. The hikers understood the danger they were in. They made a smart choice by stopping where they were. They called the emergency number 021 937 0300 right away.
The call for help triggered a big response. Wilderness Search and Rescue teams rushed to the scene. Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedics also joined the rescue operation. These trained professionals know how to handle mountain emergencies. They work together to bring people to safety.
David Nel speaks for Wilderness Search and Rescue. He had good things to say about how the hikers handled the crisis. Their actions showed they followed the SAFE campaign principles. SAFE stands for Stop, Assess, Formulate a plan, and Execute. The hikers stopped when they realized the danger. They assessed their situation honestly. They made a plan to call for help. Then they executed that plan by staying put and waiting for rescue teams.
The rescue teams used special equipment to reach the stranded hikers. Technical climbing gear helped them navigate the steep cliffs. The operation required skill and patience. Working on steep mountain terrain is never easy, even for experienced rescuers. But the teams managed to bring both hikers down without any injuries.
This rescue shows why preparation matters when hiking. Table Mountain looks beautiful and peaceful. But it can be dangerous for people who are not careful. Weather changes quickly in Cape Town. A sunny morning can turn into a windy afternoon in no time. The cable car often stops running when winds get too strong.
Hikers should always have a backup plan. Check the weather before you start. Bring enough water and food. Tell someone where you are going. Stick to marked trails. If you get lost or stuck, stop moving and call for help immediately. These simple steps can save your life.
The emergency number 021 937 0300 is important for anyone hiking in the Table Mountain area. Save this number in your phone before you start your hike. Rescue teams are ready to help 24 hours a day. But they can only help if they know you need assistance.
Both hikers went home safe that day thanks to professional rescue workers who risk their own safety to help others.
