table mountain hiking safety tips

Nine safety tips to keep in mind if you’re hiking Table Mountain

Don’t take risks.

table mountain hiking safety tips

Hiking up Table Mountain is a very rewarding experience. The majestic mountain offers a variety of routes to the top, but the mountain is as beautiful as it is dangerous.

While you might have heard about ‘easy’ routes to the top, the effort it takes – and the dangers involved – should not be underestimated.

Also read: Table Mountain can be deadlier than Everest 

Business Day recently reported that callouts for rescuers on Table Mountain increased from 169 in 2015 to 175 in 2016.

Spokesman Johan Marais told the paper that rescuers were most commonly called out to people getting lost, injured or dehydrated. The majority of these are tourists.

“The majority of people who report incidents are people from overseas; about 70% of our calls is to rescue a tourist. People underestimate Table Mountain,” he said. “They misjudge the size of the mountain and they go unprepared. They don’t take water with and they wear flip flops.”

If you plan on hiking up Table Mountain, here are some safety tips. These tips are not meant to discourage you from hiking to the top. The climb to the top is one of the most fulfilling ways to get up there, but you must be safe.

Be prepared

This might sound like an obvious one, but far too many people do not understand what being prepared for a hike up the mountain means. Plenty of water, correct footwear, a charged phone (and a powerbank for good measure), a map, sunscreen and warm clothing are some of the essentials you need to hike up. Even when opting for a so-called ‘easy’ route like Platteklip Gorge, the weather can change in an instant and dehydration is a risk.

Pack sunscreen and hydrate, even if it is overcast

Seriously. Do not think you are safe just because the clouds are covering the sun. Make sure you are covered in sunscreen – or better yet – wear a thin jacket to keep the most harmful rays off.  A couple of packets of Rehidrat are also a must.

Be aware of your surroundings

Take note of landmarks so that you know where you are at all times and know how to return should you get lost. If you are lost or hurt and need assistance, take clear images of where you are and some landmarks that can help the rescue team find you. Also keep in mind to not risk going onto ledges to get the ‘perfect’ selfie. And watch out for snakes.

Don’t go alone

Do not attempt hiking up the mountain on your own, especially if you are not familiar with the routes. Make sure you go with somebody who knows what they are doing. And never attempt routes you’re not familiar with on your own or even in a group.

Carry a map

Slingsby maps is recommended as a good option by the professionals. It’s important that you familairise yourself with your route up and down. If you plan on taking the cable car down, be sure to check on the official website whether it is running.

Do not underestimate the vastness of the mountain

There are several different routes. While some – like Platteklip – is popular and busy and more difficult to get lost on, many of the other routes can be dangerous and very easy to get lost on. Do not underestimate just how big the mountain is – and how easy it is to get lost – when you use these routes. If you are unsure, book your hike with a qualified guide.

Make sure to tell somebody which route you are taking

Always make sure somebody knows where you are and how long you expect your hike to take. Let them know when you get to the top.

Don’t carry valuables

Leave behind all valuable belongings like your passport, expensive jewellery or cash

Familiarise yourself with rescue numbers

Save these numbers to your phone.

Metro EMS: 021 9370300 (includes Mountain Rescue)

Wilderness Search and Rescue: 021 948 9900

Table Mountain Emergency: 0861 106417

SAPS Cape Town Central: 021 4678001/2

SAPS Mountain Patrol Vehicle: 082 411 2401

General Emergency Number: 0214807700 from a Cell Phone, or 107 from any Telkom Line