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A man cycling around the mountains in the Mother City nearly met his maker when crossing paths with a Cape Cobra and a slew of strong (and appropriate) language ensued.

The mountain biker was somewhere in Table Mountain National Park, reportedly on the Tokai trails per Cape {town} Etc, when his on-body camera captured his sheer shock upon stumbling across the venomous snake.

The clip was later shared by Arrive Alive on social media, serving as the season’s obligatory warning for outdoor enthusiasts.

You gotta love the peak Saffa shock factor:

(Language warning in some honest commentary on Tokai trails) Mountain bike safety and riding on the trail – Ride within your ability and on a safe trail for that riding ability!! https://t.co/ewMd6qf2Hm #ArriveAlive #mountainbike #MTB #Cycling pic.twitter.com/bsqF7dquuH

— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) November 25, 2024

As the heat kicks in from October onwards, snakes in the Western Cape become a lot more active, and officials are urging hikers, walkers, and cyclists to stay sharp. While snakes are generally shy and non-aggressive, they’ll turn dangerous if they feel threatened – like when your bike wheel is suddenly about to ride over the poor thing.

Table Mountain alone is home to 22 different snake species, many of them venomous, including the Cape cobra, boomslang, and African puff adder, according to Hike Addicts. Though encounters are rare, it’s better to be prepared than sorry.

Before hitting the trails, make sure you’re following these basic precautions:

• Stick to the trail: Don’t wander off marked paths where your view of the ground is blocked.
• Hike with a buddy: Going solo increases your risk, especially if something goes wrong.
• Watch your step: Step onto logs or rocks, not over them, as snakes often hide underneath.
• Avoid holes and crevices: Snakes love to shelter in these nooks and crannies.

If you do come across a snake:

• Stay calm and still: Don’t make sudden moves, or you’ll spook it.
• Keep your distance: Don’t approach, even if the snake looks lifeless. Some species play dead as a defence.
• Observe the snake: If it slithers off, let it go. But if it rears up, it’s ready to strike—move slowly and carefully.

Last time we checked, the antivenom situation in SA was dire, so ja, you really want to avoid getting bitten at all costs – AKA, k*king yourself is completely appropriate.

[source:capetownetc]