Summer is here. Let’s face it, 2024 has been a very long and testing year. Now is the time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of our beloved Table Mountain. Its many walking routes and hiking trails are ready to welcome you, and an easy safety checklist can help ensure that you have only positive memories at the end.
“We want everyone to have the best possible experience when they visit Table Mountain,” says Selma Hercules, Executive Director for the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC).
“A mountain hike is something everyone enjoys and on Table Mountain you certainly are spoiled for choice when it comes to routes to follow. Following these tips can prepare you for sudden changes in the weather, the risks of uneven or bumpy footpaths and walkways, getting lost, and even possible encounters with snakes,” says Hercules.
Sudden changes in weather.
Yes, it is summer, but that does not mean that the weather will always be predictable and consistently warm.
“We encourage hikers to be prepared for all weather extremes, no matter the season — from intense heat to sudden cold and wet conditions. Conditions can change faster than you think! Keep in mind that the weather on top of the mountain could be significantly different to what you experience at the foot of the mountain,” says Hercules.
She recommends dressing in layers when you go for a hike, which allows you to easily shed outer layers like jackets when it gets warmer.
Crime and Safety.
Crime is sadly something that can be felt and experienced anywhere, even on a mountain hike. Hercules recommends vigilance and awareness of your surroundings and to always hike in a group. Make sure the group sticks together and be alert when you encounter other people on the mountain.
“We are proud of all the incredible law enforcement partners in the city who work together to keep all visitors and residents safe. Please alert them immediately if you see suspicious activity anywhere along one of the walking routes or hiking trails.”
Snakes.
Experts agree that snakes are mostly shy and almost always avoid human contact. The only potential risk of a snake attacking a hiker comes when the snake feels threatened. This is also why an appropriate reaction is so important.
“There are around 22 types of snakes on the mountain and only a small portion of this group are venomous. If your hike brings you into contact with a snake, please move slowly away and show that you hold no threat. Never try to pick the snake up. Stay on the demarcated pathways and avoid venturing off-trail or into the brush,” says Hercules.
Important tips to remember.
- Never, ever hike alone. Tell someone that you are setting off on a hike and when you are supposed to return, so that they can raise the alarm in case you and your group don’t return as scheduled.
- If you can’t find friends to hike with, there is always the option of joining a guided tour.
- Charge your cell phone before you set off and save all the important emergency numbers. The Table Mountain National Park emergency number is 086 110 6417.
- If you choose a lesser-used route, then maybe consider going on a weekend when there are more people likely to be on the route.
- Stock your backpack with enough drinking water and snacks to eat along the way.
- Wear proper trail running shoes or hiking boots. Always choose footwear that is capable of handling rocky footpaths.
- Never leave home without a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a rain jacket or something to keep you warm, should the weather turn.
- Avoid showing off your valuables. Leave your jewellery at home or at your accommodation and keep your cell phone out of sight while hiking.
- When visiting the Cableway’s Top Station, be mindful of your own safety and don’t venture off the pathways. Always adhere to the safety signs for your protection.
- Listen to the Cable Car operator’s safety instructions at all times
We are proud to support these vital organisations, each playing a unique and essential role in safeguarding our New7Wonder of Nature, Table Mountain. Volunteer Wildfire Services helps preserve the mountain itself, while Wilderness Search and Rescue ensures the safety and wellbeing of its visitors. This golf day was our way of giving back and showing our appreciation for their tireless efforts.
“We acknowledge in particular two of our partner organisations who will be kept busy this summer especially with the fire season starting. The Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS) and Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) play a vital role in safeguarding our iconic New7Wonder of Nature site as well as our visitors.
“They will be a part of the team that will be ready to help everyone have the best possible experience when hiking on Table Mountain. By keeping these personal safety tips in mind we can all have a safe festive season,” says Hercules.
Main Image: Cape Town Tourism
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