Teen Tourist Rescued After Night Alone in Cape Storm

Photo Credit: WSAR Western Cape

An 18-year-old survives an unexpected storm in the Jonkershoek mountains. He was rescued safely after unexpected weather turned a hike into a test.

Western Cape, South Africa (14 July 2025) – What started as an adventure with beautiful scenic views of Jonkershoek mountains ended with a successful and dramatic rescue thanks to Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) Western Cape and their partners. Thanks to them an 18-year-old Russian tourist is safe and recovering after spending a cold, rainy night alone in the Jonkershoek Mountains.

The teen had planned to hike the popular Panorama Circuit Trail near Stellenbosch. Although he had researched the route and came prepared for a standard hike, heavy rain that swept through the area caught him off guard. Transforming the trail into a series of flowing streams and blocking his route.

Some incidents don’t just happen in movies, because upon realising he could not continue or safely turn back, he managed to send a message to a friend, saying he was tired and in danger. To make matters worse, his phone battery died shortly afterwards, leaving him stranded without a way to communicate.

As soon as the sun set and temperatures dropped, he found shelter among rocks and used the natural terrain to protect himself from the harsh weather, making it through the night despite the cold and wet conditions.

Once authorities were alerted, WSAR launched a search with CapeNature and emergency medical teams. More than 20 trained volunteers and professionals responded, using GPS data from the hiker’s last known location to guide the search.

Eventually, the teen was found near the entrance of the reserve. At first light, he had begun retracing his steps, slowly making his way back. A Western Cape Government EMS paramedic treated him on the scene before he was taken to the hospital for further care.

“This incident is a powerful reminder of how quickly things can change in the mountains,” said WSAR spokesperson David Nel. “The Cape’s wilderness areas are stunning, but they demand proper preparation and respect.”

Nel urged all outdoor enthusiasts to take simple precautions: check the weather, never hike alone, carry essential gear, and know your limits. WSAR also encourages the public to support safety awareness by using the hashtag #IAmWildernessSafe

Thanks to the hiker’s resilience and the dedication of rescue teams, this story ended on a positive note. An important reminder to always put safety first when exploring South Africa’s wild and beautiful landscapes.