Bourke's Luck Potholes

Afrikaans name: Bourke's Luck Maalkolke

Bourke's Luck Potholes

Photo © EcoView - Fotolia.com

Mpumalanga

The Bourke's Luck Potholes are one of the many attractions of the Blyde River Canyon. The holes in the rocks have been formed, over millions of years, by the eddies that have swirled round at the junction of the Treur and Blyde Rivers. These eddies have created the holes which are now a popular tourist attraction.

There is a 700-metre-long circular trail that leads you to all the best viewing sites. The highlights of the trail are the bridges which have been built across the gorges which offer you a bird’s eye view of the potholes. These are great places to do some interesting photography. It is also worthwhile spending time at the visitor information centre. Here you can learn about the potholes and the natural history of the area. There is also displays about the San who were the first inhabitants of the area.

The name originates from a gold miner, Tom Bourke, who had a claim in the area in the 1880’s. Bourke had speculated that there was gold to be found in the area, but he did not find any.

Photo © Johan van Zyl

Bourke’s Luck Potholes are located 35 km north of the town of Graskop along the R532 road.

Would you recommend a trip to the Bourkes Luck Potholes?

Photo © Johan van Zyl

Photo © Johan van Zyl

References and further reading

Hit the Road - 2nd Edition - Author: MapStudio - Published: 2018 - Page: 136

Places to Visit in Southern Africa - Author: AA RSA - Published: 1995 - Page: 87

Southern Africa from the Highway - Author: AA RSA - Published: 1991 - Page: 61

Road Tripping South Africa - Author: MapStudio - Published: 2014 - Page: 160

Conollys Guide to Southern Africa - 2nd edition - Author: Denis Conolly - Published: 1982 - Page: 320

Lekkeslaap - Bourkes Luck Potholes

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