Hiker who disappeared on Table Mountain found dead

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that the body of a hiker who went missing on Saturday on Table Mountain has been found.

SANParks’ head of communications and spokesperson, JP Louw, said the hiker’s body was found on the slopes of Table Mountain after two days of searching.

The hiker was reported missing on Saturday after leaving her place of residence around 12pm.

Last seen around noon on Saturday

“On Saturday, September 21, the Table Mountain National Park operations room was notified by metro emergency that a missing hiker was reported on Table Mountain,” said Louw.

“The hiker left her accommodation around 12pm to go up the mountain. Her friends did not hear from her since she left, and the tracking app has never updated since she left her residence.

“An initial search was conducted by SANParks rangers, wilderness search and rescue members, and trail runners until late that evening, when it was no longer practical to continue. Unfortunately, she could not be located at the time.

“The following morning, the search was resumed and conducted on foot. All agencies were once again dispatched, but the search still proved unsuccessful.” 

Louw said the City of Cape Town’s piloted aircraft was then deployed to assist with the search, resulting in the location of the missing hiker’s body on the slopes of the mountain.

He said the circumstances around the hiker’s death are still being investigated, and further details will be provided as and when necessary.

Conduct activities in groups

“SANParks extends its sincere condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time,” said Louw.

“We also express our sincere gratitude to our stakeholders and staff involved in this operation.” 

Louw said Table Mountain National Park management urged visitors to conduct activities in groups.

“We recommend four or more safety tips; choose your route carefully and stick to it; allow yourself enough time — start early, inform someone of your route and what time you are expected back; always wear waterproof clothing and wear walking shoes or hiking boots; and save the Table Mountain National Park emergency number into your phone before setting off.”

• The Table Mountain National Park emergency number is 086 110 6417, and the wilderness search and rescue number is 021 937 0300 or dial 112.