If you travel 35km north of Graskop on the R532 in Mpumalanga, you will stumble across one of the most magnificent natural features in South Africa – Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
It is a bucket list adventure you want to experience at least once in your lifetime if you are South African or a tourist.
Mpumalanga has a series of travel adventures in close proximity to each other which makes your itinerary particularly interesting. With the likes of Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondawels, God’s Window and Bourke’s Luck Potholes, you’re spoilt for choice on which to visit first.
The famed potholes are named after John Bourke, who was the first to stake a claim to the area and announce that the region had gold deposits. Sadly, he never discovered any gold here. The geological wonder was formed after decades of swirling soil-laden water from two rivers – the Treur and Blyde River – carved holes into the porous rock.
After years of extensive water erosion the perfectly-punched holes were left behind, creating nature’s masterpiece that is Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
The sculptures look like they belong on the moon, which adds to their fascination. The rock is coloured by swirls of white, dark yellow and dark brown – this is due to the soil present in the water.
There are a series of metal bridges which you can walk between and viewing platforms to take in the best views of the rock formations. You can also visit the small museum or enjoy the many trails nearby.
There is an entrance fee to visit the potholes, and the cost is minimal.
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