A Stellenbosch University student fell 4m on wet rock at the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve during a hike on Friday (October 9). 

The 20-year-old was rescued by helicopter from Second Waterfall Ravine. 

According to Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR), the student was hiking with five others when the incident occurred. 

“While scrambling towards the upper waterfall, he lost his footing and fell, sustaining injuries that left him unable to continue,” said the organisation.  

Other members of the group made their way out of the ravine to call for help. 

WSAR teams, Stellenbosch Fire and Rescue, Western Cape Government Health and Wellness Emergency Medical Services and the Air Mercy Service helicopter assisted with the rescue. 

Aerial rescue executed in confined space 

“The patient was secured in a rescue harness and hoisted into the helicopter, as the pilot and crew expertly manoeuvred through the narrow ravine, surrounded by towering rock walls and the cascading waterfall, with very little room to spare,” explained the organisation.  

Ground teams used ropes to help the two remaining hikers descend safely out of the ravine. 

The injured student was flown to hospital for further medical treatment. 

Early distress call praised  

The organisation’s spokesperson, Murray Williams, praised the group for recognising the seriousness of the situation and calling for help. 

“The group did exactly the right thing,” he added. 

Williams said that when someone is injured and unable to continue safely, one should not wait to see if things improve. “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.” 

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,” said Williams.  

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 co-ordination to operate safely in those conditions.” 

Hazards  

Williams added that Second Waterfall Ravine is one of Jonkershoek’s striking natural features, but its beauty can conceal significant hazards. 

“Spray from the waterfall can keep rock surfaces wet even on a sunny day. Moss, algae and wet grass can make footholds unreliable, while some surfaces that appear dry may offer little grip,” he explained. 

Safety advice 

He advised hikers to assess conditions carefully, avoid exposed scrambling when surfaces are wet and turn back if the terrain becomes unsafe. 

“Check that everyone in the group is comfortable with the route and the conditions, and never feel obliged to continue simply because a destination is close,” said Williams. 

Wet rock 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.” 

He advised hikers to call for help immediately if someone is injured or cannot continue safely. 

“Provide your location as accurately as possible, follow the call-taker’s instructions and avoid moving an injured person unless remaining where they are presents an immediate danger,” said Williams.

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