While a determined 55-year-old rock climber successfully reached the summit of Lion’s Head, he unfortunately suffered an awkward fall and a dislocated shoulder on his return to level ground – reminding us all that the descent deserves just as much respect as the climb.
Cape Town, South Africa (30 June 2026) – After successfully summiting the classic Clifton Crest climbing route on Lion’s Head on Saturday afternoon, a 55-year-old rock climber unexpectedly injured his shoulder while attempting the descent.
Having completed the climb, the climber and his partner were making their way back towards the hiking trail when he tripped on uneven ground, fell awkwardly, and dislocated his shoulder.
Recognising that continuing safely would be difficult, his climbing partner immediately contacted the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) emergency number, allowing rescue resources to be dispatched without delay.
WSAR rescue teams, including SANParks Table Mountain National Park rangers and Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedics, responded swiftly to the scene to treat the injured senior man.
He was then carefully assisted down a rocky scramble before being guided along the remainder of the trail. Friends later transported him to the hospital for further assessment and treatment, concluding the incident at 6:06 pm.
WSAR spokesperson David Nel said many mountain incidents occur after the most technical part of an adventure has already been completed.
“It’s easy to relax once the hard work is over, but fatigue, uneven terrain and a momentary lapse in concentration can quickly turn a successful day into one requiring assistance. The descent deserves just as much respect as the climb.”
Nel said the same metaphor could also be applied to the year for Wilderness Search and Rescue.
“There’s a well-known saying in the mountains that the summit is only halfway. In many ways, the same can be said of 2026. While we’re only halfway through the year, June has already equalled the busiest June on record, with 21 rescue callouts keeping our volunteer teams busy across the Cape mountains.”
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“With much of the winter hiking season still ahead of us, it’s a timely reminder of both the growing number of people enjoying our mountains and the incredible commitment of our volunteer rescuers, park rangers and EMS partners, who continue answering the call whenever help is needed.”
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Cape Town Kayakers Rescue Starving African Penguin Far Out to SeaBehind every rescue is a team of skilled and dedicated people willing to leave their families, workplaces and weekend plans at a moment’s notice to help strangers – ensuring anyone and everyone who needs assistance in the mountains receives the very best care.
As winter continues to draw thousands of people to the Cape’s mountains, Nel encourages the public to plan carefully before heading outdoors. This includes allowing enough time for your return journey, checking the weather forecast, carrying warm clothing, water and a fully charged cellphone, and remembering that the descent deserves just as much care and attention as the climb.
WSAR extends its sincere thanks to every volunteer rescuer, ranger and EMS paramedic who responded to this incident, and wishes the climber a speedy recovery.
Save and share the WSAR emergency contact number: 021 937 0300
Sources: Wilderness Search And Rescue
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