So, you’ve decided to hike in Mpumalanga, taking in sights like Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, and maybe even a waterfall or two.

But, as the saying goes, even the best-laid plans can go awry, and nature has a way of throwing curveballs.

Whether you’ve strayed off the trail, run into unexpected weather (something our province is famous for at this time of the year), or simply underestimated your stamina, here’s what you need to know if you get stuck while hiking in Mpumalanga.

  • Don’t Panic. Assess the Situation

First things first: stay calm. It might seem easier said than done, but keeping a level head is so important. Take a moment to breathe and evaluate your surroundings. Are you lost? Injured? Is the weather changing? Once you’ve made this assessment, you can start planning your next steps.

  • Stay Put if You’re Lost

While your instinct might be to keep moving, if you’re unsure of your location or think you’ve wandered off the trail, it’s usually best to stay put. The more you move, the harder it becomes for search and rescue teams to locate you. Try to find a spot that’s visible, such as an open area or elevated ground. In Mpumalanga’s hilly terrain, staying near a visible landmark like a rock formation can also help you get noticed more quickly.

  • Signal for Help

If you’ve brought a whistle, now’s the time to use it!

A whistle carries much further than your voice and can be heard over the natural sounds of a forest or canyon. If not, yelling works too. Create large, visible markers around you, such as an “SOS” out of rocks or sticks, or use any brightly coloured clothing to catch attention from above.

  • Ration Your Supplies

Got food and water? Great. Now ration them. This is where your preparation pays off. Always pack extra snacks, energy bars, and a full water bottle, just in case. If you’re stuck for an extended period, it’s essential to conserve your energy and hydration. If you’re near a river or stream, treat the water (a portable water filter or purification tablets are life-savers) before drinking. No filter? Try boiling the water if you have a way to start a fire. Otherwise, wait until you have a proper way to disinfect it.

  • Stay Warm and Dry

Mpumalanga’s weather can be unpredictable, and even during the warmer months, temperatures can drop dramatically at night. Hypothermia is a real risk if you’re not prepared. Always carry a space blanket or emergency shelter in your pack. If you don’t have one, improvise by using leaves, branches, and other materials to insulate your body and keep dry. Fires are great for warmth but only light one if it’s safe and under controlled conditions.

  • Navigation Tricks

If you haven’t packed a map or compass, don’t worry; nature has some clues to help you find your way. In the southern hemisphere, like Mpumalanga, the sun generally travels across the northern part of the sky. This can help you maintain a sense of direction. If you spot a river or stream, following it downstream can often lead you to civilisation or at least a larger water body where you might be found.

  • Prepare for the Unexpected

Preparation is the key to ensuring your hike remains an adventure rather than a survival ordeal. Before setting out on your Mpumalanga hike, tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Always pack a basic survival kit: a multi-tool, extra water, a headlamp or flashlight, fire starters, and a first aid kit should be staples. Even if it’s a short hike, the terrain in Mpumalanga can be tricky, and being prepared could make all the difference.

  • Practice Prevention

A little prevention goes a long way when hiking in Mpumalanga. Research your trail beforehand and ensure it matches your fitness level. Pay attention to weather forecasts and carry a rain jacket, even if the day seems sunny. Ensure your phone is fully charged before heading out, and consider carrying a portable charger. While Mpumalanga offers many picturesque moments for Instagram, your phone could become your lifeline in an emergency.

Hiking in Mpumalanga is an unforgettable experience, but getting stuck can turn it into a nightmare if you’re unprepared. Armed with this knowledge, and making sure you let someone close to you know that you are hiking, you don’t have to be worried about being caught unprepared, in an unexpected situation!