Unfortunately, harassment of hikers in the high Drakensberg (i.e. escarpment hikes as opposed to low Berg hikes), is still a problem. Whilst such incidents cannot be wholly avoided, there are certain measures that high Berg hikers can take to reduce the incidence or unfavourable outcomes of these attacks. Hence, any High Berg hike requires close attention to detail, both in planning and execution.
Such measures include:
BEFORE THE HIKE:
Contact the regional wardens in the areas where the hike is planned, i.e. Monks Cowl, Giants Castle, Injisuthi, etc. to ascertain whether there have been any recent incidents. The KZN branch of the Mountain Club could also be contacted.
Plan a group of at least 4 people, all of whom must be experienced backpackers and very fit.
At least one member of this group should preferably be an experienced High Berg hiker. A good command of GPS and map reading is essential, as the High Berg meanders in and out of Lesotho and has no proper paths and no signposts.
Be familiar with the location of caves, which may be needed as shelter in an emergency. (Please note that if the hike is planned to include overnight use of a cave, these caves must be booked and paid for in advance)
Plan the route so as to avoid known hot spots and the head of mountain passes, used as routes between KZN and Lesotho.
Fill in the mountain register carefully, particularly the section concerning intended routes and overnight stops.
Ensure that the leader has the relevant emergency numbers on the cell phone. Two cell phones per group is advisable, in case someone has to leave the group to seek assistance.
If at all uncertain about undertaking such a hike alone, the group should book a local guide, who is able to communicate with the local people and who knows the mountains well.
DURING THE HIKE:
All members of the group should be briefed on the following:
Stick as closely as possible to the route described in the mountain register. If inclement weather prevents this, try to make up the distance the next day so as to arrive at the correct overnight stop.
Be alert for people following or observing you throughout the day.
Lesotho herdsmen are frequently encountered. Treat them with courtesy and keep clear of their dogs. Do not arouse hostility under any circumstances.
Keep a close eye on exactly where you are at all times, so that a hasty exit from the mountain can be planned, if necessary.
Choose a camping spot where tents can be pitched as closely together as possible.
Do not pitch camp below rocky outcrops which could be used as a hiding place or as a vantage point from which to throw rocks down upon the tents.
Sleep prepared for a hasty departure. Wear as many clothes as comfortable, keep your rucksack packed and your boots, rain gear and torch close at hand INSIDE the tent, not in the bell.
In the event of an attack, your boots, raincoat and torch are probably the most important items. Grab your rucksack if you can, but leave behind your sleeping bag and, of course, your tent! A day without food will not kill you, but delay in beating a retreat could mean serious injury.
Try to keep the party together when retreating to a safe distance.
If necessary, send 2 people down to the nearest rest camp to seek assistance and rescue by helicopter.
Take turns at night to keep watch and alert rest of party immediately if concerned even if it turns out to be a false alarm.
Make a full and accurate statement to KZN officials and the police about what happened. In our case, this resulted in the arrest and conviction of our attackers and could act as a deterrent. This contributes to the safety of future High Berg hikers.
FIREARMS
After we were attacked, several people asked why we did not carry firearms. In our opinion, the carrying of firearms is not an option, for several reasons:
They could be taken from you and used against you.
Hikers could become targets for the theft of firearms should it be made known that they carry them.
A spell in a Lesotho gaol for killing one of their citizens is a fate not to be contemplated!
Finally, an adaptation of the old adage:
He who plans and runs away, lives to hike another day!
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