Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams were called out to Cecelia Forest over the weekend after a passing hiker reported an unconscious and unresponsive man near the waterfall.
The call to the emergency number (021) 937 0300 prompted an immediate response.
‘Horizontal turn’
On arrival, rescuers found a 20-year-old hiker whose outing had taken what one responder described as “an unexpectedly horizontal turn” while hiking with a friend.
It soon emerged that the pair had consumed substances in an attempt to “chemically enhance their trip” – a decision that quickly proved unwise.
Instead of elevating the experience, the effects left the young man disoriented and unable to stand without assistance.
Fortunately, after a full assessment by Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedics, the situation was found to be less medically severe than initially feared.
With support and steady guidance – “the kind usually needed for a stubborn donkey,” rescuers quipped – the hiker was walked down the trail to a waiting ambulance.
The operation concluded at 12:05.
WSAR thanked the alert passerby who raised the alarm and praised the swift efforts of the volunteer and professional teams who responded.
Safety Warning
Authorities reiterated that hiking under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous, severely impairing judgment, coordination, and reaction time – especially in challenging or remote environments.
“The mountains demand respect – keep your outings sober,” WSAR warned.
About WSAR
Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) is a network of government agencies and civilian volunteer organisations working together to assist in search-and-rescue incidents across the Western Cape.
- Emergency number: (021) 937 0300
- Support WSAR: Visit their website to contribute to volunteer rescue efforts.
