3-Day Murchison Falls Safari: Itinerary, Cost & Complete Planning Guide

Quick Answer: How Much Does a 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari Cost?

A 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari costs $750 to $1,200+ per person for 3 days. That equals $250 to $400+ per person per day when 2 travelers share a vehicle and a room. The price covers a 4×4 safari jeep, a driver-guide, park fees, game drives, the boat cruise, accommodation and meals. Luxury lodges start at $400 per day and rise depending on the lodge.

What Is the 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari?

The 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari is Uganda’s most popular short wildlife trip for visitors with limited time. It takes you to Murchison Falls National Park, the largest and oldest protected park in the country. The itinerary packs a game drive, a boat cruise and a visit to the top of the falls into only 3 days, with an optional rhino tracking stop.

You will see lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos and crocodiles in one compact journey. Leopards appear occasionally, and spotting one is a special reward for patient travelers. The park also shelters more than 450 bird species, including the prized shoebill stork. Few short safaris in East Africa offer such variety.

The centerpiece is the Nile itself, which squeezes through a rocky gorge roughly 7 meters wide. Water that flows calmly for hundreds of kilometers suddenly explodes downward with astonishing force. The spray, the thunder and the rainbows make the moment unforgettable. Most guests call this waterfall the emotional highlight of their entire Uganda trip.

The park covers about 3,840 square kilometers in northwestern Uganda, roughly 300 kilometers from Kampala by road. A 3-day package suits travelers who want real wildlife without a long commitment. You gain 1 full day inside the park, and the price stays far below a 7-day circuit across several parks.

Detailed 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari Itinerary

The schedule below is our standard plan, and we adjust it to your preferences. Timings shift slightly with traffic, weather and wildlife sightings. Your driver-guide reads conditions each morning and recommends small changes. Flexibility is one of the main advantages of a private safari over a large group tour.

Day 1: Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park and Top of the Falls (Drive Time: 5-6 Hours)

Your 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari starts at 6:00 AM with a hotel pick-up in Kampala or Entebbe. Your driver-guide loads your luggage and explains the plan. Leaving early avoids the worst city traffic and guarantees enough daylight to reach the falls on arrival.

The road heads north through Luwero toward Nakasongola, as suburbs give way to farmland, papyrus swamps and open savanna. Roadside stalls sell fresh fruit, roasted maize and cold sodas.

Around 10:00 AM you can make an optional stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda to see wild-born rhinos. A ranger leads you on foot to southern white rhinos, often within a few meters. The tracking fee is an optional extra, so tell us when booking.

Lunch follows in Masindi town, where your guide suggests clean, reliable restaurants. The final stretch passes forest edges and small communities before the savanna opens ahead.

On arrival in Murchison Falls National Park, you head straight to the top of the falls before checking in. Footpaths lead to viewpoints beside the gorge, where the Nile thunders through a gap of roughly 7 meters. Mist rises around you, the ground vibrates underfoot, and rainbows often hang across the spray.

Your guide allows plenty of time for photographs. The short walk suits most fitness levels, though rocks can be slippery, so wear shoes with good grip.

You then continue to your lodge and check in by late afternoon. Staff offer a cool drink and a briefing, and dinner is served at the lodge.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive and Boat Cruise

Day 2 is the main event of your 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari. Wake-up calls come around 6:00 AM, so you can catch animals when they are most active. Breakfast is quick or packed, and your driver-guide waits with coffee.The morning game drive covers the northern bank of the Nile, along tracks such as Buligi. Open grassland makes spotting easy, and the pop-up roof lets everyone photograph without leaving the vehicle.

You will likely see Rothschild’s giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, hartebeests and warthogs. Lions are limited in number and appear only on lucky days, usually resting on the roadside or moving in the tall grass. Leopards are even rarer, though dawn offers the best chance.

The afternoon boat cruise leaves the Paraa jetty around 2:00 PM and lasts about 3 hours. Expect hippos, crocodiles, drinking elephants and birds such as kingfishers and fish eagles. The boat pauses near the bottom of the falls for photographs.

Day 3: Return to Kampala (Drive Time: 5-6 Hours)

Day 3 begins with breakfast and checkout from your lodge. Pack your bags early, since the 5-6 hour drive back to Kampala takes most of the day. The vehicle leaves shortly after breakfast to keep your arrival time comfortable. Your driver-guide shares stories about northern Uganda along the road.

The return drive includes a lunch stop in Masindi or along the road. The schedule allows a short visit to a craft market if you want souvenirs. If you skipped Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on Day 1, you can add the optional rhino tracking on the way back. You arrive in Kampala or Entebbe between 5:00 and 6:00 PM, or slightly later with the rhino stop.

If you have an evening flight, tell us in advance so we can adjust the timing. We usually recommend at least 4 hours between arrival and departure. Traffic around Kampala can be unpredictable, especially on weekday evenings. A safe buffer protects you from missing international connections.

How Much Does a 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari Cost?

The cost of a 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari depends on group size, lodge level and season. Our prices range from $250 to $400+ per person per day. This works out to $750 to $1,200+ for the full trip. Sharing a vehicle with more travelers lowers the individual price noticeably.

The breakdown below shows typical rates for 2 people traveling together:

• Budget safari, $750 per person ($250 per day): This option uses a budget lodge such as Hornbill Bush Lodge or Heritage Safari Lodge and a shared 4×4 safari jeep. Rooms are clean and comfortable, with simple meals and friendly service. It suits backpackers, students and anyone who wants wildlife without luxury. You still enjoy the full itinerary, the game drive, the boat cruise and the top of the falls.
• Mid-range safari, $900 to $1,050 per person ($300 to $350 per day): Mid-range travelers stay at lodges such as Pakuba Safari Lodge or Tilenga Safari Lodge. Rooms offer better views, nicer dining and added amenities like pools. Vehicles are the same well-maintained 4×4 jeeps with pop-up roofs. This tier balances comfort and cost better than any other.
• Luxury safari, $1,200+ per person ($400+ per day): Luxury guests stay at Paraa Safari Lodge, Entikko Safari Lodge or Chobe Safari Lodge. These properties add laundry, unlimited WiFi, house drinks and wellness facilities to the standard package. The final price rises above $400 per day depending on the lodge and room type. It suits honeymooners, anniversaries and travelers who value comfort above all.

What the Safari Price Includes

Every 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari price covers the essentials listed below:

• Park entrance fees: Fees are $45 per day for each foreign non-resident visitor. They are paid to the Uganda Wildlife Authority and are already part of the quoted price. Fees may change with official updates, so we confirm current rates when you book. You never pay surprise charges at the gate.
• Game drives and boat cruise: The morning game drive and the afternoon boat cruise are both included. The launch fee covers a guide on the boat and a cold-water stop if needed. You also enjoy the visit to the top of the falls on Day 1. No extra tickets are required during the safari.
• Transport and driver-guide: You travel in a 4×4 safari jeep with a pop-up roof and window seats for everyone. Your driver-guide is licensed, experienced and fluent in English. Fuel, vehicle maintenance and parking are covered. The same guide stays with you for the entire trip.
• Accommodation and meals: 2 nights of lodging are included, along with meals at the lodge. The exact meal plan depends on the lodge you choose. Bottled water is provided in the vehicle every day. Special diets can be arranged when requested in advance.
• Ziwa Rhino tracking (optional extra): The rhino visit on Day 1 or Day 3 is not part of the standard price. Rangers guide the walk and keep everyone safe. It adds a 5th big animal to your safari list and supports rhino conservation in Uganda. Tell us when booking, and we add the fee to your quote.

What the Safari Price Excludes

A few items are not part of the standard price. International flights to Entebbe are booked separately, and so is your Uganda visa. Tips for guides and lodge staff are optional but appreciated. Drinks beyond bottled water, laundry and personal shopping are also excluded, except at luxury lodges where house drinks and laundry are included.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended and is not included in any package. A good policy covers medical care, evacuation, cancellations and lost luggage. Buy it when you book your flights, not later. Coverage should explicitly include safari activities and travel in Uganda.

What Affects the Cost of Your Safari?

Group size is the biggest factor, because vehicle and guide costs are shared. A solo traveler pays more per person than a group of 4. Traveling with friends or family is the simplest way to reduce costs. Season and lodge location also change the final price noticeably.

Dry-season months are busier, and lodges charge higher rates. The low season offers discounts, fewer crowds and sometimes upgraded rooms. Lodges inside the park save travel time but sell out early. Properties outside the gates are cheaper, yet they add transfer time to each day.

Extra activities add to the total. Options include Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary tracking, a village walk, a nature walk or a sunset cruise. Private vehicles with guaranteed window seats also cost more than shared departures. We quote every extra clearly so you can decide before you travel.

Where to Stay on a 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari

Lodge choice shapes your experience as much as the wildlife does. Murchison Falls National Park has properties in every price range, from simple bandas to premium riverside suites. Some sit on the north bank near the main game tracks. Others are on the south bank, closer to the Budongo Forest and Masindi.

Budget Lodges: Hornbill Bush Lodge and Heritage Safari Lodge

Hornbill Bush Lodge and Heritage Safari Lodge offer clean rooms, hot meals and friendly staff at modest prices. Facilities are simple, yet they provide everything needed for a comfortable night. Many have bar areas and open terraces where guests swap stories. Budget options suit travelers who spend most of the day outdoors anyway.

Mid-Range Lodges: Pakuba Safari Lodge and Tilenga Safari Lodge

Pakuba Safari Lodge and Tilenga Safari Lodge give you better views, larger rooms and more dining choices. Some have swimming pools, which feel wonderful after a dusty game drive. Staff arrange early breakfasts, packed lunches and laundry services. These lodges are popular with couples, families and small groups.

Luxury Lodges: Paraa, Entikko and Chobe Safari Lodges

Paraa Safari Lodge, Entikko Safari Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge sit at the top of the Murchison Falls market. They offer elegant rooms, private decks, riverside dining and attentive personal service throughout your stay. Guests often watch hippos and elephants from their verandas at sunset. Luxury lodges suit honeymooners and celebration trips, and they book out early during the dry season.

What Luxury Lodges Usually Include

Luxury lodges bundle many extras into the nightly rate, so your $400+ daily cost covers far more than a room. Inclusions vary by lodge and room type, so we confirm the exact list in your quote:

• Laundry services and unlimited WiFi: Laundry keeps your safari clothes fresh without effort. WiFi lets you share photos and plan tomorrow from your room.
• House drinks: House drinks remove the need to track bar bills. Selections cover local beers, house wines, soft drinks and standard spirits, while premium labels may cost extra.
• Gym, sauna and spa: Unwind after long game drives and dusty roads. Massages ease tired muscles before the next early start, though spa treatments may carry a separate fee.
• VIP and family cottages: These offer extra space, private sitting areas and premium views over the river or savanna.
• Bush or sunrise breakfast and signature afternoon tea: Cottage guests eat breakfast in the wild as the light turns gold. Afternoon tea follows at the lodge with pastries, sandwiches and fine teas.
• Guided nature walk and bush meals: A ranger-led walk reveals tracks, insects and medicinal plants that vehicles miss. Bush meals add outdoor dining under the trees, with fresh food served in the open air.

Best Time for a 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari

The best time for a 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari is the dry season. That period runs from June to September and again from December to February. Animals gather near the Nile to drink, so game drives become easier and more rewarding. Roads are also firmer, which makes travel smoother and faster.

Dry Season: June to September and December to February

During these months the grass is shorter, and animals stay visible along the riverbanks. Rain is rare, so your drives and cruises proceed without interruption. Dust can be an issue, so keep camera gear covered. Lodge prices are highest now, and popular places sell out weeks ahead.

Low Season: March to May and October to November

The low season brings heavier rain and lusher green scenery. Birdlife is spectacular, because migratory species arrive and resident birds start breeding. Prices drop, lodges are quieter and crowds are thin. Some roads become muddy, but experienced drivers handle them calmly in 4×4 vehicles.

Birdwatching on Your Safari

Murchison Falls is one of Uganda’s best birding destinations, with over 450 recorded species. Even casual visitors enjoy the colorful birds lining the riverbanks. Serious birders can add dozens of species to their life lists in a single day. The boat cruise is usually the most productive birding activity.

The shoebill stork is the most famous resident and a dream sighting for many travelers. Shoebills live in the papyrus swamps of the Nile delta, and spotting one often needs a dedicated delta cruise. Other notable birds include the Goliath heron, the Abyssinian ground hornbill and the red-throated bee-eater. Carmine bee-eaters nest in riverbank cliffs during the dry season.

Bring binoculars and a simple bird checklist if you are interested. Your guide knows many calls and can identify species quickly. Early mornings and late afternoons give the best activity. If birding is your priority, tell us when booking so we can shape the plan.

Getting to Murchison Falls: Road Transfer or Flight

Most travelers reach Murchison Falls by road from Kampala or Entebbe. The drive takes 5-6 hours, and an optional rhino stop adds extra time. Roads are paved for much of the route, with some rough sections near the park. A 4×4 safari jeep handles them comfortably and keeps passengers safe.

Domestic flights offer a faster alternative for travelers with more money than time. Small planes fly from Entebbe or Kajjansi to airstrips near the park in about 1 hour. Flying saves a day of driving, but baggage limits are strict. A fly-in option also increases the total cost of the trip.

A road trip has its own rewards. You see rural Uganda, meet local people and add an optional Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary stop on the way. Flexible stops let you photograph landscapes and buy fresh produce. For most guests on a 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari, the drive feels like part of the adventure.

Visas, Permits and Health Requirements

Most visitors need a visa to enter Uganda, and the easiest route is the official online e-visa system. Apply at least 2 weeks before you travel, so approval arrives comfortably. Your passport should remain valid for at least 6 months. Always check current requirements with official government sources before booking flights.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry to Uganda. Carry the original card, because airlines and immigration officers may ask to see it. Consult a travel doctor about other vaccines and malaria prevention. Doctors usually advise antimalarial tablets for visits to Murchison Falls.

Park permits and entrance fees are handled by your safari operator and included in the price. You do not need to queue at the gate or carry large amounts of cash. Bring a copy of your passport for identification. Keep original documents safe in the lodge.

What to Pack for Your 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari

Pack light and choose clothing that works in warm weather and cool mornings. Neutral colors such as khaki, olive and beige blend into the landscape. Avoid bright colors and dark blue, since they can attract insects. Soft-sided bags fit more easily into the safari vehicle than hard suitcases.

Essential items for your bag include:

• Clothing: Bring lightweight long-sleeved shirts, comfortable trousers and a warm fleece for early mornings. Add a hat, sunglasses and a rain jacket for unexpected showers. Closed shoes with good grip are vital for the falls and any optional rhino walk. Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for relaxing at the lodge.
• Health and protection items: Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer and any personal medications. Bring antimalarial tablets prescribed by your doctor. A small first-aid kit handles minor scrapes and blisters. Reusable water bottles help reduce plastic waste during the trip.
• Photography and gear: A camera with a good zoom lens makes wildlife photos far better. Bring spare batteries, memory cards and a power bank. Binoculars improve every game drive. A dust cover or simple plastic bag protects equipment on dry, dusty tracks.
• Documents and money: Carry your passport, visa, vaccination card and travel insurance details. Bring small US dollar bills in recent editions for tips and souvenirs. Some lodges accept cards, but connectivity is unreliable. Keep valuables in a lockable bag or the lodge safe.

Safari Tips for First-Time Visitors

Start each day early, because animals are most active at dawn. Bring a light snack for the morning drive, since breakfast may come later. Keep noise low inside the vehicle to avoid disturbing wildlife. Listen to your guide, who reads animal behavior better than any visitor can.

Stay inside the vehicle during game drives unless your guide says otherwise. Wild animals are unpredictable, and respecting distance keeps everyone safe. Never feed wildlife or throw items from the window. Follow park rules strictly, because they protect both visitors and animals.

Drink plenty of water and use sun protection even on cloudy days. The equatorial sun is strong, and the wind on the boat adds to the effect. Be patient rather than demanding specific sightings, since some of the best moments come from small behaviors. Ask your guide questions throughout the day.

Photography Tips for Murchison Falls

Wildlife photography rewards preparation and patience. Shoot in the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon, when light is soft and warm. Use a fast shutter speed for moving animals, ideally 1/1000 second or quicker. A bean bag on the window ledge steadies your lens better than a tripod.

For the falls, use a slower shutter speed to capture silky water movement. Protect your lens from spray with a soft cloth. Try wide angles for scale and close crops for texture. Rainbows often appear around midday, so keep your camera ready.

On the boat, a zoom lens between 70 and 300 millimeters works well. Hippos, birds and elephants appear at varying distances. Keep your settings simple so you can react quickly. Always review your photos at the lodge and delete weaker shots to free up space.

Responsible and Sustainable Travel

Safari tourism supports conservation, but only when done responsibly. Park fees fund ranger patrols, anti-poaching work and community programs. Choosing a local operator keeps more money in Uganda. Your visit directly helps protect species like lions, giraffes and rhinos.

Reduce your footprint by carrying a reusable bottle and declining single-use plastics. Stay on designated tracks so vegetation and habitats remain undamaged. Keep a respectful distance from animals and never disturb nests or young. Support local communities by buying crafts from cooperatives and tipping guides and lodge staff fairly.

Extending Your Safari Beyond 3 Days

Many guests love Murchison Falls so much that they extend the trip.

• Adding a 4th day allows a chimpanzee trek in nearby Budongo Forest. You walk through the tall forest with a ranger and watch habituated chimps feed and play. The experience pairs beautifully with the savanna wildlife of the park.
• A 5-day itinerary can add a visit to Kibale Forest or Queen Elizabeth National Park. These parks offer chimpanzee tracking, tree-climbing lions and Kazinga Channel boat cruises. Longer trips let you experience Uganda’s diverse landscapes at a relaxed pace. We tailor each extension to your interests, budget and travel dates.

Some travelers combine Murchison Falls with gorilla trekking in Bwindi. That option needs more days and advance permits. Gorilla permits sell out quickly, especially in the dry season. Speak to us early so we can build a balanced itinerary around permit availability.

Why Book Your 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari With Us?

Iconic Africa Safaris is a local Ugandan tour operator based in Kampala. We run private 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari tours every day of the week. Our team lives and works in Uganda, so we know the roads, lodges and seasons intimately. You deal directly with people who care about your trip.

Our 4×4 safari vehicles are regularly serviced and fitted with pop-up roofs and window seats. Each vehicle carries bottled water, a first-aid kit and charging points. Drivers are licensed and trained in safe, considerate driving. Our guides know the park’s best tracks, lion territories and birding hotspots.

We keep pricing honest, with no hidden costs and no last-minute surprises. Custom itineraries, dietary needs and special occasions are handled with care. We also encourage responsible travel that benefits local communities. Contact us today for a customized quote for your 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari.

How do I book a 3-day Murchison Falls safari with Iconic Africa Safaris?

Send us your travel dates, group size and preferred lodge level through our contact page. We reply with a detailed quote and a day-by-day itinerary. After you approve the plan, a small deposit confirms your booking. The balance is paid before departure, and you receive written confirmation of every inclusion.

Iconic Africa Safaris offers three simple, reliable ways to secure your next unforgettable Ugandan adventure today. Simply complete our quick online booking form to start planning your dream safari experience right away. Our friendly team also welcomes direct emails at info@iconicafricasafaris.com to discuss your specific travel plans and preferences. For WhatsApp calls and messages, tap the green WhatsApp icon in your screen’s bottom right corner anytime.

Our driver-guides are the trip managers guests trust most — trained professionals, some former park rangers, all skilled interpreters of wildlife and culture. They stay with travellers from the first airport pickup to the final wave-off, keeping each day running smoothly and safely.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari

How much does a Murchison Falls safari cost?

A standard Murchison Falls safari costs between $250 and $400+ per person per day. The total for a 3-day trip is therefore $750 to $1,200+ per person. Prices depend on the lodge you choose, the season and the size of your group. Larger groups pay less per person because transport costs are shared.

What is the best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park?

The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is the dry season. That means June to September and December to February. Animals gather near the Nile, roads stay firm and skies are mostly clear. The wetter months offer cheaper rates and beautiful birding, but some tracks become muddy.

What animals can you see in Murchison Falls?

You can see elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, hippos, crocodiles and many antelope species. Leopards appear occasionally, and hyenas are sometimes spotted at dawn. Adding Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary brings rhinos to your list as well. Over 450 bird species live here, including the famous shoebill stork.

How long is the drive from Kampala to Murchison Falls?

The drive from Kampala to Murchison Falls takes 5-6 hours by road. This includes normal traffic but not longer stops for lunch or rhino tracking. Most safaris start at 6:00 AM so you reach the top of the falls on arrival. The road is partly paved, and a 4×4 vehicle handles the rough sections well.

Is a 3-day safari enough for Murchison Falls?

3 days is enough to see the main highlights of Murchison Falls National Park. You enjoy 1 full day inside the park with a game drive and boat cruise. A 4th day lets you add chimpanzee trekking or a deeper game drive. A 3-day package remains a popular, well-balanced choice for most travelers.

What is included in a 3-day Murchison Falls safari from Kampala?

A 3-day Murchison Falls safari from Kampala includes transport in a 4×4 jeep with a driver-guide. It covers park entrance fees, the game drive, the boat cruise and the top of the falls visit. 2 nights of accommodation and meals are also included, plus bottled water. Flights, visas, tips, personal drinks and optional Ziwa Rhino tracking are excluded from the price.

Can I do a budget 3-day Murchison Falls safari?

Yes, a budget 3-day Murchison Falls safari costs around $750 per person for 2 travelers sharing. It uses budget lodges such as Hornbill Bush Lodge or Heritage Safari Lodge and a shared safari vehicle. You still enjoy the game drive, boat cruise and waterfall views. Travelers who share with larger groups can reduce the cost further.

What do luxury lodges include on a Murchison Falls safari?

Luxury lodges such as Paraa, Entikko and Chobe Safari Lodges usually include laundry services, unlimited WiFi and house drinks. Most also offer a gym, sauna and spa. VIP and family cottages add bush or sunrise breakfast, signature afternoon tea, a guided nature walk and bush meals. Inclusions vary, so confirm them when you book.

Is Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary included in the 3-day Murchison Falls safari?

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is an optional extra and is not part of the standard price. You can add the rhino tracking walk on Day 1 during the drive north. You can also add it on Day 3 during the drive back. Tell us when booking, and we include the fee in your quote.

Is the Murchison Falls boat cruise worth it?

The Murchison Falls boat cruise is absolutely worth it, and many guests call it their favorite activity. The 3-hour trip takes you close to hippos, crocodiles, elephants and dozens of bird species. You also see the base of the falls from the water. The cruise is included in our 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari price.

Can I see lions and leopards on a 3-day Murchison Falls safari?

Lions are regularly seen on the northern bank, especially during the dry season. Leopards are much rarer, and sightings depend on luck, timing and patient guides. Early-morning game drives give the best chance for both cats. No operator can guarantee sightings, but our guides use experience and radio contacts to improve your odds.

What should I wear on a Murchison Falls safari?

Wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing such as khaki, olive or beige. Bring a warm layer for cool mornings and a rain jacket for sudden showers. Closed shoes with good grip are important for the falls and any optional rhino walk. Add a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent for comfort and protection.

Do I need a visa and vaccinations for a Murchison Falls safari?

Most travelers need a Uganda visa, which you can apply for through the official e-visa system. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry to the country. Your doctor may also recommend malaria tablets and other routine vaccines. Always check current rules with official sources before you travel.

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