Bourke's Luck Potholes

Bourke's Luck Potholes counts amongst the most unique attraction on the Panorama Route. An exploration of South Africa is typically characterized by curious and exciting natural features along the way, such as the Bourke’s Luck Potholes in Mpumalanga. Found where the Treur and Blyde Rivers meet, the geological phenomenon attracts many visitors to its potholes and plunge pools.

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Overview

The cylindrical potholes, known as "giant’s kettles", are the result of swirling river water eroding the pools for centuries. The sight is rather beautiful, as the pool walls have been sloped smooth over the years by the kolks, revealing a sprawling network of interior lines and layers.

The potholes were named after local prospector Tom Bourke, whose "luck" was discovering alluvial gold in the area during the 1880's Barberton rush. An informative visitors’ center meets guests and directs them across a series of metal bridges spun over the crags. Located 35km north of Graskop, Bourke’s Luck marks the beginning of a tour of South Africa’s scenic Panorama Route.