The body of a missing hiker was recovered on the Otter Trail in the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park.
According to the South African National Parks (SANParks), the man was reported missing by his hiking group after he went ahead during their hike. He was last seen at approximately 1pm on the second last day of the trail.
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He did not arrive at the last overnight hut.
At around 3:43pm yesterday, SANParks Rangers and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) began a search despite unfavourable weather conditions, large swells and swollen rivers.
‘By nightfall, there was no sign of the missing man. The search resumed at first light today with the support of SAPS and Police Search and Rescue teams,’ SANParks said in a statement.
‘Unfortunately, the hiker was found deceased. The family of the deceased has been notified by Park Management and is being supported during this difficult time.’
The government conservation authority cautions hikers against crossing fast-flowing rivers or areas affected by high sea conditions. It said it would continue to monitor conditions in light of the adverse weather.
The Otter Trail remains open, and Park Management is monitoring the situation.
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Picture: Mateus Maia / Unsplash