The weather is looking perfect and outdoor activities are picking up again too; the SANParks Table Mountain team shared a reminder about safety tips and to be mindful of sun-seeking wildlife.
Cape Town, South Africa (19 October 2022) – If you are eager to get your hiking gear on and set of for the mountain, the season is here and the good weather is making the outdoors it a must! Before you set off, the Table Mountain National Park authorities would like to remind you of all the safety tips they have gathered over the years and to be on the lookout for snakes as they are also coming out to enjoy the good weather.
Table Mountain National Park management would like to remind visitors to note the following safety rules and please exercise caution while enjoying outdoor activities.
- Do not carry out your activity alone. Do it in groups when out hiking, trail running, cycling or horse riding, etc.
- Choose your route carefully and stick to it. Allow yourself enough time – start early. Inform someone of your route and what time you’re expected back.
- Cycle, hike or run during daylight hours only.
- Always take waterproof clothing, even in mid-summer, and wear walking shoes or hiking boots. Wear a hat or cap and sunblock in summer. Weather changes rapidly.
- Do not attract unwanted attention by openly displaying cash, cameras, or other valuables.
- Should you have visitors to the city unfamiliar with the mountain, we suggest you engage the services of a guide to ensure they have the best possible experience. For all local visitors, we suggest they consider joining one of the many groups that hike daily across the mountain and who welcome new faces to their ranks.
- Please load our emergency number into your phone before setting off. Table Mountain National Park Emergency Number 086 110 6417. Wilderness Search and Rescue Number 021 937 0300 or dial 112
- Entry to the park remains at all times at your own risk.
Wildlife will be taking advantage of the good weather too so Tyrone Ping shared his advice with the park, so visitors can be mindful too.
“As the temperature increase, snakes become more active and Table Mountain National Park is home to around 22 snake species, 10 of which are non-venomous, although they can still deliver a nasty bite if provoked and five of the venomous species include the Cape Cobra, the Puff Adder, Boomslang, Rinkhals, and Berg Adder.
The good news is that they are mostly shy and will avoid human contact. The one you are most likely to encounter is the Puff Adder which moves at a leisurely pace and enjoys nice warm spots, such as rocks and pathways.
As you hike keep your eyes peeled for the animals that call the TMNP home. Many are so well adapted to the fynbos ecosystem that you need to be quick to spot them. Please be vigilant and exercise caution while enjoying outdoor activities.”
Tyrone Ping shares a wealth of knowledge on his website should you wish to learn more about the snakes in the area.
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