A multi-unit SAPS search operation is underway at Augrabies Falls National Park after a Cape Town tourist vanished during a hike on 11 April 2025.
Augrabies Falls National Park, Northern Cape – 16 April 2025
A large-scale search is currently underway at the picturesque Augrabies Falls National Park in the Northern Cape following the disappearance of a 66-year-old Cape Town tourist, who was last seen on a solo hike on Friday, 11 April 2025.
The tourist, whose identity has not yet been publicly disclosed, checked into the park on Thursday, 10 April, and was believed to have embarked on a hike the following morning. Concerns were raised when he failed to return by 4:30 pm that day, prompting park rangers to alert local police authorities.
Police and Special Units Mobilised
According to Colonel Cherelle Ehlers, spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the region, an immediate and thorough search operation was launched. The operation includes the involvement of:
- Augrabies SAPS
- SAPS Airwing
- Upington Search and Rescue Unit
- Upington K9 Unit
- A SAPS drone pilot
Ehlers stated, “His personal belongings and vehicle were still at the park, which heightened our concerns. We are exhausting all efforts to find him.”
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Public Urged to Help
As the search intensifies, SAPS is appealing to the public for any information that may assist in locating the missing tourist. Anyone who may have been in the area or noticed suspicious activity is urged to come forward.
Contact Information:
- Captain Robert Turner: 082 770 4208
- Sergeant Tshepo Marungwana: 084 298 5101
- SAPS Crime Stop Hotline: 08600 10111
Ehlers assured the public that “All information will be handled with strict confidentiality.”
Ongoing Investigation
Genevieve Maarsdorp, spokesperson for Augrabies Falls National Park, confirmed that the park is working closely with law enforcement authorities. “We are deferring all public communication to SAPS as the investigation is ongoing,” she said.
The incident has cast a sombre shadow over one of South Africa’s most scenic tourist destinations, known for its dramatic waterfalls and rugged hiking trails along the Orange (Gariep) River.
Safety Reminder
While Augrabies Falls remains a favourite among hikers and nature lovers, this event is a reminder of the importance of registering hiking plans, checking in and out with park officials, and avoiding solo hikes in remote areas.
