Unfortunately, there are always risks in every hiking endeavor, so therefore it is important to minimize these risks by ensuring you take certain safety tips before and during your hikes:

• Plan your hike – Read up beforehand about the hike you are planning. This way you know what to expect.
• Never hike alone – (especially in South Africa) Join a hiking group or take a friend or family member with you when you go hiking.
• Tell someone about your plans – Always make sure that someone knows where you are going.
• Be aware of the weather – Check the weather forecast before you head up a mountain.
• Know your limit – It is very important that you never yourself past your limits. 
• Hydrate – You should have enough water with you when you go hiking.
• Add layers – The weather is a lot different high up in the mountain, so it is always easier to dress in layers, which will make it easier to remove or add layers as you hike. PS – always make sure to take something warm up the mountain, you never know what may change!
• Save the emergency numbers – Before you disembark on your hike, save all the necessary emergency numbers on your phone.
• Make sure your phone is fully charged – You do not want to get into an emergency and will not be able to phone anyone.
• Sunscreen – Whether you are hiking during winter or summer time, remember sunscreen sunscreen sunscreen Do not underestimate the South African sun!
• Have the correct gear – Invest in your hiking gear – especially hiking boots. 
• Snacks – Throw some protein bars into your backpack. You never know when you might need them.