Wilderness Search And Rescue's (WSAR) David Nel said that the two stuck hikers were located shortly before 2am on Tuesday morning, and that rescuers gave them torches and checked that they were warm enough, before expertly guiding them down to the Lower Cable Station.

The incident was concluded at 3.47am when everyone was safely off the mountain.

“We want to remind all outdoor enthusiasts that the seasons are changing and ask them to plan accordingly. Start any outdoor activities earlier remembering that the sun sets earlier as the seasons start to change,” Nel said.

“Pack a torch and an extra warm layer of clothing before venturing outdoors. Most importantly, ensure you save the correct emergency number and call us sooner," said Nel.

The Mountain Club of SA has also urged hikers to research their hiking trail, that it is within their ability, and stay on the trail.

“While the Table Mountain trail network might appear to be a ‘straight-forward’, anyone who has been monitoring our rescues will realise that the reality is that during the past more or less hundred and fifty years of recreational hiking, a plethora of tracks, trails and ill-defined ways to go have sprung up-many of them navigating dangerous and high-consequence terrain.

“Depending on how you count, there are more than a hundred trails and scrambles on Table Mountain, and only a very small portion of them are suitable for first-time, casual hikers on Table Mountain,” the club said.

“It is a fact that due to the combination of its topography and the extensive trail network, Table Mountain is more unforgiving for navigational errors than many other high-use mountainous areas. In fact, we regard the majority of trails on Table Mountain as only suitable for experienced and equipped hikers. Hence, navigating and staying on the intended paths is crucial,” they said.

In case hikers find themselves in an emergency situation, they are encouraged to call 021 937 0300 for assistance.

Cape Argus