Dutch tourist airlifted after leg injury on Little Lion’s Head

A family hike near Hout Bay turned into an emergency on Saturday afternoon after a 23-year-old Dutch tourist suffered a painful leg injury on Little Lion’s Head.

The woman was hiking with her family when she felt a sudden ‘pop’ behind her knee.

Unable to put weight on her leg or continue along the trail, she called emergency services for assistance.

Helicopter dispatched

A rescue helicopter was dispatched after Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) received the emergency call.

A Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic was flown to the scene, where the injured hiker was assessed and treated before being safely airlifted to a nearby landing zone.

Her family subsequently made their way down the trail to reunite with her before taking her to hospital for further medical attention.

Second rescue at Sandy Bay Beach

The Little Lion’s Head incident was one of two separate emergencies attended to by WSAR teams that afternoon.

With little time to rest, rescue crews were called to Sandy Bay Beach after a man believed to be in his 40s reportedly tripped and struck his head against a rock.

The helicopter was quickly redeployed to assist.

The injured man was safely evacuated to a nearby landing zone, where an ambulance crew took over and transported him to hospital.

Emergency teams praised

WSAR thanked the emergency responders involved in both operations, including SANParks Table Mountain National Park rangers, for their swift response and professionalism.

The organisation highlighted the teamwork required to assist people in distress across the mountain and coastline.

The two incidents also serve as a reminder that accidents can happen quickly on hiking trails and at coastal locations, even during an otherwise enjoyable outdoor outing.

WSAR wished both patients a speedy recovery.

Hikers and visitors who need emergency assistance in the area can contact WSAR on (021) 937 0300.