Nicolas Hohls, a 27-year-old KwaZulu-Natal farmer, had a terrifying brush with death after being attacked by two hyenas while camping at Cape Vidal with family and friends.
Alan J. Hendry/Unsplash
According to News24, Hohls was asleep in his tent when the animals entered through a small ventilation flap. He awoke to searing pain as one hyena bit his face and another grabbed his ankle. Acting on instinct, he fought back by punching and shoving his hand into the hyena’s mouth to force it off. His shouts alerted his father, who rushed in and helped him escape before rushing him to a hospital in Ballito for treatment.
The incident shocked the local camping and wildlife community, with many expressing concern about safety in unfenced camps. Hohls emphasised that he had zipped the tent properly, but left a small section open for airflow, an innocent mistake that might have given the hyenas a way in.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority released a joint statement following the incident expressing well wishes to Nicolas Hohls and extending their support. More importantly, they have included safety guidelines for visitors. Here’s what you need to know.
Visitor safety guidelines for camping in wild park
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Stay alert: The fence at Cape Vidal is designed only to deter elephants. Other wild animals, including predators, move freely through the area.
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Manage food properly: Never leave food, dirty dishes, or scraps outside. Clean up before nightfall and store everything securely.
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Do not feed animals: Feeding wildlife can alter their natural behaviour, making them bolder and more dangerous.
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Keep a respectful distance: No matter how tame an animal may appear, all wildlife can be unpredictable and should not be approached.
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Secure your tent fully: Always zip your tent completely at night. Even lingering food smells can attract curious animals.
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Supervise children: Kids should not be allowed to roam alone, especially after dark.
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Avoid excess alcohol: Intoxication can impair judgment and increase risky behaviour.
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Report concerns: If you witness irresponsible behaviour or notice strange animal activity, inform camp staff immediately. Emergency contacts are available at reception so store them in your phone upon arrival.
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Remember where you are: Wild animals are part of the Cape Vidal experience. Understanding the risks and respecting nature is part of the adventure.
Teams in the park are currently working to track and relocate two to three hyenas known to roam the area and believed to be involved. While authorities are reviewing the possibility of installing full fencing at Cape Vidal, it is not seen as a sustainable solution. Fences are often ineffective at stopping determined wildlife. Visitors are urged to adhere to the safety guidelines as the park works to ensure the offending hyenas are caught.
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