At the confluence of the Blyde River and the Treur River (Mourne River), in the South African region of Mpumulanga, thousands of years of water erosion have created a unique and otherworldly geological feature. Here at the mouth of the Blyde River Canyon, the two rivers formed swirling eddies of water. Over time, this formed huge cylindrical potholes in the sandstone bedrock.
The effect is now a fascinating network of tunnels and tubes and interconnected whirling pools. The different soil levels in each hole give them each a unique color and makes for a striking and colorful landscape. The formations get their name from a prospector, John Bourke, who was one of the first to proclaim that the region had gold deposits and who staked a claim nearby. Despite the name of the potholes, he never found a single ounce of gold there — though luckier prospectors would later find rich amounts of gold in the area. Even if he walked away empty-handed, his name lives on in the stunning scenery.
The water level was very low during our visit and the potholes are obviously more spectacular during the rainy season. On a personal level, Bourke’s Luck is where Michael received advanced infantry training in the Army.
You must be logged in to post a comment.