Robotic Exoskeleton Helps Exhausted Hiker Safely Descend South Africa’s Table Mountain

Cape Town, South Africa — September 28, 2026

A 47-year-old woman was safely brought down South Africa’s Table Mountain after rescuers used a robotic exoskeleton to help her continue walking when she became exhausted during a family hike.

Family Calls for Help as Daylight Fades

The woman was hiking with her family along Platteklip Gorge on Saturday afternoon. By the time the group reached the summit, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway had already closed for the day, leaving the family facing a long descent as daylight began to disappear.

Recognising that the descent could become difficult, the family contacted Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) before the situation became an emergency. A small rescue team, including a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic, then headed up the mountain to meet them.

Rescuers Turn to Robotic Technology

After a long day of hiking, the 47-year-old mother was too exhausted to comfortably continue down the steep gorge. Rescuers decided to use one of WSAR’s newest pieces of equipment — a Hypershell exoskeleton.

The battery-powered device is worn around the hips and thighs and is designed to assist the wearer’s natural movements. Rather than carrying the hiker, it provides powered assistance as she walks, reducing some of the strain on her tired legs.

According to WSAR, the woman’s steps became steadier and her confidence improved after the device was fitted. With rescuers walking alongside her, she was able to continue the descent on her own feet.

First Exoskeleton Rescue in South Africa

The operation marked the first reported deployment of an exoskeleton during a rescue mission in South Africa.

The entire family eventually reached safety, with the rescue operation ending shortly after 11 p.m. WSAR said the technology provides another option for rescuers when deciding what type of assistance is appropriate for a patient.

The rescue team also highlighted the importance of the family contacting them early. Because the hikers asked for assistance before their situation became critical, rescuers were able to reach them and provide support while they could still safely continue walking.

The successful rescue demonstrates how emerging wearable technology can potentially complement traditional mountain-rescue techniques, particularly when an exhausted person is still able to walk but needs additional physical assistance.

Sources

• Cape Argus — First for SA as robotic exoskeleton aids Table Mountain rescue — September 28, 2026.
• Cape Town ETC — Exoskeleton helps exhausted hiker down Table Mountain — September 27, 2026.
• The Citizen — Robotic legs used to rescue 47-year-old mom off Table Mountain — September 28, 2026.
• Arrive Alive — Robotic Legs to the Rescue: SA First on Platteklip Gorge — September 28, 2026.
• Good Things Guy — First for SA! Robotic Legs to the Rescue on Platteklip Gorge — September 28, 2026.