Bourke's Luck Potholes sit on the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga, South Africa, where the Treur River meets the Blyde River. Over millions of years, the swirling water has ground cylindrical holes into the rock. Walkways, bridges and viewing platforms take you around the formations, and a short trail leads to the point where the two rivers meet. The potholes connect through tunnels and small waterfalls, and each hole has its own colour. Visitors toss coins into the holes for wishes. Allow about an hour to walk the trail and look around.
How the potholes formed
The Treur River and the Blyde River meet at this spot, and their swirling water creates whirlpools. Pebbles and sand carried by the current grind into the rock and slowly wear it away. Over long periods, this erosion has produced the cylindrical potholes, many of which connect to one another through tunnels, tubes and pools.
The site is named after Tom Bourke, a gold prospector from the 18th century who had little luck finding gold. The holes now hold coins left by visitors, who toss them in for wishes.
What to see on the trail
The walk is about 700 metres long and runs over walkways and bridges. It begins at the visitor centre, which has information on the canyon's geology, plants and animals. The bridges span the rivers and give different angles on the potholes, with viewing points along the way.
At the edge of the water, you can put your feet in the clear, cool pools. A short lichen trail of about 80 metres is also on site. A cafe is close by for a break. For photographs, the light is best in mid-morning or late afternoon, when the colours in the holes show most clearly.
Getting there and visiting
From Sabie, travel north on the R532 for about 65 km to reach the site. The potholes are inside the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, where there is a per-person entrance fee.
The trail is easy and involves little walking. The entrance, the restroom and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible, and part of the site has a ramp. Visitors who want to see the rest of the Panorama Route can plan extra time for God's Window and the Three Rondavels.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, there is a per-person entrance fee. Check the current amount before you travel.
How long do you need?
Allow 30 to 60 minutes for the trail and the viewpoints.
Is Bourke's Luck Potholes wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, the restroom and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible, and part of the site has a ramp.
How do you get there?
From Sabie, travel north on the R532 for about 65 km.
