German backpacker found after 11 nights in Australia's outback

Carolina Wilga, 26, survived by drinking from puddles and sleeping in a cave, police said.

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Carolina Wilga, 26, from Germany, was rescued on Friday. She had suffered from exhaustion, dehydration, "extensive insect bites" and an injured foot, according to police.

Officers said she walked 24km (15 miles) away from her van in a "confused and disorientated" state after it became stuck in remote bushland.

Ms Wilga had convinced herself she was not going to be found, police said, adding that the backpacker's family was relieved and thankful.

"She spent 11 nights exposed to the elements and survived by consuming the minimal food supplies she had in her possession, and drinking water from rain and puddles," a Western Australia police statement said.