Mountain Rescue, under the aegis of the Mountain Club of South Africa, undertakes to provide an effective and efficient Mountain Search and Rescue service as a voluntary and free service to those in need of assistance, irrespective of race, gender or creed. Our objectives are described in more detail here.

The mountain rescue team of the MCSA-CT section is co-ordinated by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . The team consists of approximately 70 members, all trained in various aspects of mountaineering, first aid and technical rope rescue. Training is carried out throughout the year and members work closely with other organisations operating under the WSAR (Wilderness Search & Rescue) banner, such as Metro Rescue, the South African Air Force, the 4x4 Club and the South African Speleological Association.

We are always looking for new recruits to the MCSA Mountain Rescue team - to strengthen the team, introduce new skills and replace members who have moved away.

Mountain rescue is a volunteer-based service. Our specialist fields of expertise are technical rock-face rescues and mountain searches. Active mountaineers and rock climbers are invited to contact us. Note that we do not teach mountaineering or climbing skills, but rather train members in adapting their existing skills to become safe and competent rescuers. Further details of the proficiencies expected of trained team members can be found here.

The Mountain Rescue team holds regular training exercises and prospective members are invited to attend these sessions to meet the team. We encourage an initial period of “apprenticeship” during which you will train with the team to acquire technical rescue skills and knowledge. At this stage you may be asked to assist with non-technical rescues to obtain hands-on experience of real rescues. Your further involvement in more technical and advanced rescues (e.g. helicopter work) depends entirely on your enthusiasm, commitment and suitability for the tasks demanded by mountain rescue.

Should you be interested, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for details.

Rescue resources for team members and managers only.