Two elderly hikers were safely rescued from a remote area in the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve near Rooiels after losing their way while descending a mountain trail.
The pair, aged 75 and 68, became disoriented near a waterfall and were unable to find their way back down.
Despite limited cellphone reception, they managed to reach CapeNature and send their GPS location from a high vantage point above the waterfall.
Searched on foot
Responding swiftly, Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) Western Cape activated teams to assist.
A two-person rescue unit from Overstrand was immediately dispatched and began the search on foot, equipped with torches and warm clothing.
After nearly two hours of trekking through rugged terrain, rescuers located the hikers slightly off the trail.
The men were cold but in good spirits, according to WSAR.
With aerial assistance from the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS Drone Unit, rescuers successfully guided the hikers back down the mountain.
The operation was concluded at 22:17, with all parties safely off the mountain.
Authorities have reminded the public to always be prepared when venturing into the wilderness and to save the WSAR emergency number: 021 937 0300.
Have you ever gotten lost while hiking?
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