Bourke’s Luck Potholes
Man can build great things, but nature is an even better builder. When we see naturally-made wonders, we can’t help but be awestruck at the sheer immensity of it. This is the exact feeling if you decide to visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
Image from flickr
The potholes are one of the many attractions in Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve together with the Three Rondavels and God’s Window.
The cylindrical rock formations are located where the Treur and Blyde Rivers meet. Over a thousand years as a soil and eddies of water pounded the river bedrock, the cylindrical rock formations eventually came to be as if they were sculpted by hand.
Image from flickr
Exploring Bourke’s Luck Potholes can be a great family activity or a solo venture. If you want a convenient trip on a beautiful day out, you can drive your car 35 kms north of Graskop on the R52. There is a parking area nearby. Entrance fees are at 55 rand or at least 4 USD. If you are taking your car with you, you will need to pay 5 rand which is no more than $1.
Once there, get ready to start exploring the area. There is a visitor’s center where you can stop by and get to know the place a little bit more before setting out. From there, the potholes are a 700-meter short hike. Walk the bridges that provide you a great vantage point to see the pothole from above. Watch as the river swirls and travels through the potholes. You can also walk down and take photos from the view below.
Image from flickr
Image from flickr
The river is a little cold for swimming but you can take a dip if you really want to. Families can picnic or barbecue in the area for the day. Restroom facilities are also available. You can also follow the Panorama route which is a scenic drive along Mpumalanga. The route includes the potholes as an ideal stopover for lunch.
As a solo venture, you can hike along the many trails that include Bourke’s Luck Potholes as a stopover. From Bourke’s Luck Potholes, you can also hike the Belvedere Trail. The Belvedere is a circular route of 10 kms that usually takes hikers five hours to finish. This trail is one of the less travelled trails in Blyde River Canyon so if you are looking for peace and quiet, this trail is just for you. You will need to pay 50 rand or at least $5in Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
Following the trail will lead you to the Belvedere hydroelectric power station. Descending the canyon as you try to reach the now-defunct power station gives you spectacular views of all the foliage and wide-open space.
Image from flickr
The potholes are known for the magnificent orange hues of the rocks so plan your visit after midday to see how sunlight transforms the place. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit from May to September while most tourist attractions in South Africa are busiest from October to March.
Regardless of the crowds though, you will definitely enjoy Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
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( All images found in google image search and I added images source with the website name. These images are not mine. if there have any false details in this article , please accept my apologies )