CapeNature manages large areas in the Western Cape mountains and encourages hikers to enjoy the wild beauty of these areas.
For hiking permits please contact the CapeNature call centre on 087 087 8250.
Enquiries can also be emailed to reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Hiker Safety
Being prepared is the key to having a safe and enjoyable experience on our trails. Become self-reliant by learning about the terrain, conditions, local weather and your equipment before you start. Even if you are headed out for just an hour, an injury, severe weather or a wrong turn could become life threatening. Never hike alone and pace your hike to the slowest person in your group.
Before heading out on a hike, make sure you have the relevant numbers programmed into your phone:
Mountain Rescue : 021 937-0300
West Coast Control : 022 433-8700
For all other areas, please ensure you have the local emergency services number in your phone before embarking.
Download: There and back Safely – Hiking Protocol
The following guidelines will help ensure that your hike is safe and sound.
Planning
Plan your hike thoroughly. Pay attention to:
Weather
Weather conditions can change very quickly in the mountains, even if the weather is good at lower altitudes. Trails will be closed in the event of dangerous weather. Do not attempt to hike if the trail is closed – it can endanger lives. If the weather becomes dangerous, make your way back to the start or to the nearest hut as quickly as possible. Do not attempt to complete the trail. Weather forecasts are available from 082 162. If in doubt, phone the reserve before leaving home.
Emergency Equipment
Clothing and Footwear
Take a wind- and waterproof anorak and woollen jersey (even in summer). Wear two pairs of socks. Change the inner pair every few hours to prevent blisters. Boots or shoes should be sturdy with strong non-slip soles and must be well worn-in. Tennis shoes and takkies are not suitable. Sun hats are essential, even on cool days. Use a sun block on all exposed parts – not only your face. In cold weather, wear a warm cap/beanie to prevent heat loss.
Food
Lightweight, nutritious energy foods include packet soups, dehydrated vegetables, powdered milk and soya-bean meats, dried fruit, raisins, cheese and chocolates. Carbohydrates like pasta, dehydrated potatoes and rice are convenient and energy-rich. Tinned and bottled foods add unwanted weight. Glass containers break easily. Drink fresh water. Alcohol is not advisable because it can impair judgement and cause dehydration.
Emergencies
In the event of an emergency or accident while hiking, keep the group together. Keep moving if possible. If you are unable to continue due to injury or collapse, or if weather conditions become too severe, seek shelter, dress warmly and stay in your sleeping bag. Stay on or close to the path, so that you are visible to a rescue party. Do not stray from a given route. in the event of an emergency, notify the relevant reserve office or phone 10111 if possible.
Being Lost
Serious Accidents
Hypothermia (exposure)
Wet, wind and cold can cause hypothermia. It can happen very quickly. Symptoms include exhaustion, stumbling, uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, loss of memory and drowsiness. Hypothermia can be fatal. The following can help avoid hypothermia:
Hyperthermia (heat exhaustion)
Hot weather, insufficient liquid and exhaustion can cause hyperthermia or heat exhaustion. Symptoms can include exhaustion, stumbling, dizziness, headaches and impaired vision. The following can help to avoid hyperthermia:
Mountain Fires
Mountain fires can be deadly. Follow these guidelines to avoid danger:
Flooded Rivers
Try to avoid crossing a flooded mountain stream. Rather wait until the water level has dropped, then cross at a safe place.
Lightning
If a thunderstorm is brewing, immediately move away from high ground (summits, exposed necks /cols and ridges), prominent trees, power lines and similar lightning conductors. Seek shelter in low bush or inside a dry cave or overhang.
Finally, remember that rescue operations are costly, difficult and can also endanger the rescuers. Relatively few rescue teams serve large mountainous areas, diminishing your chance of a speedy rescue. Make safety your priority.
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How do you want to get involved?
Bookings are processed through our Call Centre during office hours Monday to Friday 07h30 to 16h30 and Saturday 08h00 until 12h00 noon (CAT).
Our friendly tourism booking officers will take you through the booking process and answer all enquiries.