How to enjoy Table Mountain safely

While more and more people look to spend their time outdoors especially over the upcoming long weekends, it is important take extra caution to stay safe.

This is especially true for those wanting to explore some of the many scenic national parks in Cape Town, including the city’s very own New7Wonder of Nature – Table Mountain.

“Spending time in nature is one of the best ways to connect with your loved ones, while ensuring that you practice proper social distancing,” explains Wahida Parker, Managing Director of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC).

Testament to this, Parker points out that TMACC has seen an increase of 60% in the purchasing of Cable Cards over the past year. “This supports the trend of more people wanting to spend their time outdoors, as the Cable Cards are most often used by people who hike up the mountain and take the cableway down.”

Parker says that with more people wanting to explore the mountain, it is important that everyone takes all the necessary precautions to ensure that they put their safety first. “No matter how experienced a person may be, unexpected things can and do happen in a rugged terrain. The more prepared you are when exploring Table Mountain and other nature reserves the more likely you are going to have a good experience.”

Some of the trails, such as the India Venster and Nursery Ravine, can be very technical, which are often only recommended for experienced outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Some of the other hiking trails which require some level of preparedness is Platteklip Gorge, Skeleton Gorge and the Kasteelspoort. With several dangerous cliffs and ravines, a misplaced foot can easily lead to an injury. So, it is always best to plan where you go and who you do it with.

Rising more than 1000 meters above sea level, weather on the mountain can change very quickly. If unprepared, fluctuating temperatures or a strong gust of wind can easily catch you off guard.

It is not just the weather and tricky footpaths that can put you at risk. Parker points out that unsavoury characters are known to take advantage of the cover that the bushes, shrubs, trees and caves provides, to pounce on unsuspecting individuals.

Parker says to reduce your risks of being accosted, it is important to always stay alert of your surroundings. “To help reduce your risks, it’s best to leave your valuable items such as your wallet and jewellery at home. If you must bring your cell phone or smart watch, keep them out of sight.”

Parker adds that TMACC, SANParks, Cape Town Tourism, the City of Cape Town and Law Enforcement agencies will continue to work together to help keep the mountain safe for visitors. This includes state-of-the-art CCTV cameras that are fixed at strategic locations in certain areas of the park to help cast a wider security net over large swathes of Cape Town’s iconic landmark.

Here are a few basic safety tips to make sure your experience is a safe and memorable one:

  • The Hikers Network’s SafetyMountain Tracking App: A tool to help keep you safe is the tracking app, a WhatsApp-based service that track users, so they remain along the approved SANParks routes.
  • Dress appropriately: With winter around the corner, it will soon get wet and windy. Dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes for balance as it can get slippery when it rains. Layer your clothes.
  • Keep your eyes on the time: Take note of the shorter days, as it usually gets darker a bit earlier. Plan your walks or hikes carefully and make sure that by the time it gets dark you are in a safe place.
  • Obey the rules: Stay on the route. Respect restricted areas and do not take risks, even for that perfect Instagram picture. Stick to the designated paths and follow the signposts to avoid getting lost.
  • Go in groups: Avoid hiking alone. It is best to go in groups of four or more as an extra safety precaution. ​
  • Tell someone about your plans: If you’re planning on hiking, tell someone. This way, if you get stuck or lost, people will know where to look for you first.
  • Stay hydrated: Carry enough water to stay hydrated and take snacks with you.

 

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Issued by HWB Communications Pty Ltd on behalf of TMACC.

 

About the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) has been providing visitors with a world-class experience since October 4, 1929. The company operates in a National Park and World Heritage Site. The mountain’s magnetism has a way of drawing people in, compelling them to reach the summit. But getting to the top was not always the effortless trip it is today. For more information, visit www.tablemountain.net

TMACC takes the well-being of visitors seriously and have therefore put in place strict Covid-19 health and safety protocols for the protection of their staff and visitors.

 

 

About HWB Communications

HWB has a long track record of successfully assisting our clients to gain market share and grow their businesses through the implementation of innovative Public Relations strategies. We are globally effective through the Public Relations Global Network (PRGN).

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