Exceptional Helicopter Skills Save Stellenbosch University Student in Jonkershoek Ravine

Photo Credit: Wilderness Search and Rescue via Facebook (Photos by Tian Cilliers and Adam Griffin)

Thanks to quick-thinking friends and the incredible skill of the helicopter rescue crew, a Stellenbosch student is now safe and sound after a scary fall in Jonkershoek.

Stellenbosch, South Africa (12 October 2026) – What started as a hike among friends in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve took a scary turn on Friday when a 20-year-old Stellenbosch University student slipped on wet rock and fell nearly four metres into Second Waterfall Ravine.

While scrambling towards the upper waterfall, the student lost his footing and sustained injuries that left him completely unable to walk. Recognising the danger, his companions acted quickly, making their way out of the steep, confined ravine to call for help, a decision that ultimately set his rescue in motion.

Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams, including Stellenbosch Fire & Rescue, responded immediately. To reach the injured hiker in such challenging terrain, the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter was dispatched.

In a display of extraordinary skill, the pilot and flight crew expertly manoeuvred through the narrow ravine, surrounded by towering rock walls and the cascading waterfall with barely any room to spare.

Photo Credit: Wilderness Search and Rescue via Facebook (Photos by Tian Cilliers and Adam Griffin)

Thanks to this precision flying and seamless teamwork, rescuers secured the student in a rescue harness and hoisted him safely into the helicopter.

Meanwhile, ground teams used ropes to assist the two remaining hikers down and out of the ravine to safety. The injured student was flown to hospital for further medical treatment.

WSAR spokesperson Murray Williams praised the group for recognising the seriousness of the situation and calling for help.

“The group did exactly the right thing. When someone is injured and unable to continue safely, call 021 937 0300. Don’t wait to see if things improve, and don’t attempt to carry an injured person out of steep or technical terrain. Calling early gives rescue teams more time, more options and the benefit of daylight.”

Second Waterfall Ravine is one of Jonkershoek’s striking natural features, but its beauty can conceal significant hazards. Williams also commended the helicopter crew for the precision required to complete the hoist in such challenging terrain.

“The flying in that ravine was exceptional. The crew held the helicopter in a confined space between steep rock walls, with the waterfall nearby, while the hoisting was carried out. It takes considerable skill and coordination to operate safely in those conditions.”

Williams wished the injured hiker well in his recovery and warned hikers to take particular care on wet rock, as it can be extremely slippery even when conditions elsewhere are dry.

“Near waterfalls, spray keeps the surrounding surfaces damp, and a single misplaced step can have serious consequences.”

Working in a confined ravine with steep rock walls, slippery surfaces and a waterfall required careful coordination between the helicopter crew and ground teams. WSAR extends its heartfelt appreciation to all rescue personnel involved in this technically demanding operation.