Sequenz - Plains Zebra fighting
Black / Hook-lipped Rhino / Spitzmaulnashorn
Löwen bei Klein Namutoni im Etosha-Nationalpark
Hook-lipped Rhino / Spitzmaulnshorn
Young Giraffe Bulls fighting at the Central Namibia Game Reserve
Giraffenfohlen säugt bei Stute
Geparden
Elefantenbulle auf der Andoni Plain
Elefantenbeobachtung am Moringa Wasserloch
Suikerkelkie / Cordon royenii
!Nara / Nara
Ondili Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp Premium Tent
Ondili Namib Outpost Namib Outpost Pool View Superior Suite
Ondili Namib Outpost Namib Outpost Superior Suite Pool
Ondili Brigadoon Guesthouse Garden View 1
Ondili Brigadoon Guesthouse Breakfast Room
Okonjima Okonjima Nature Reserve Activities 44
Ondili Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge Kalahari Red Dunes Lodge Bedroom View Suite
Ondili Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp Pool View
Ondili Twyfelfontein Adventure Camp Sundowner View
Onguma Bush Camp Deluxe Rooms
Ondili Timelen Guesthouse Shady Place In The Courtyard
Ondili Namib Outpost Namib Outpost Main Building
Okonjima Okonjima Experience013
Okonjima Okonjima Luxury Bush Camp Pool
Okonjima Okonjima Luxury Bush Camp View From The Restaurant
Strauss Am Sossusvlei
Willkommen zu LEaflove Safari
Wanderung am Sossusvlei & Deadvalley bei starkem Wind
Dünen in der Umgebung und bei Sossusvlei
Suricate / Erdmännchen
Yellow Mongoose @ Kalahari Park 10
Sociable Weaver / Siedelweber
Golden Tailed Woodpecker / Goldschwanzspecht / Subspecies Anders
Brubru / Brubruwürger

Ondili Meumbo, a guided Safari

Guided individual journey, flexible, high quality, sustainable, and offering exceptional value for money, featuring Namibia’s most iconic highlights.

You are here:

Duration

15 days
can be arranged flexibly

Type

tailor-made
Guided individual tour

Group size

individual
(1-7 persons per vehicle)

Language

English
trilingual Guide

Possible highlights:

Lodges at the local direct rate:

First-class accommodation inside private nature reserves, without the usual mark-up.

Sustainable, not as a label:

Lodges that return a large share of their earnings to the habitat around them.

The dunes of the Kalahari:

Linear dunes, karst limestone reefs and wide salt pans – often with Sociable Weavers, Oryx and Springbok.

Sossusvlei:

The highest dunes on earth, plus Dead Vlei and the Sesriem Canyon on the Tsauchab.

Swakopmund:

Colonial charm, species-rich tidal flats and living dunes — time to catch your breath.

The Spitzkoppe:

An inselberg of smooth granite, with rock paintings by the first inhabitants and rare desert flora.

Twyfelfontein and the desert elephants:

Rock engravings, burnt mountains, and Ana trees whose red pods may draw the elephants in.

Central Etosha:

One of the most game-rich parks in Africa — patience and an early start pay off here.

Eastern Etosha and the Andoni plains:

Denser bush, more springs, more game – good chances of lion, leopard and cheetah over Fischer’s Pan.

High quality without mass tourism:

Namibia’s prime sights, but the nights are spent inside private reserves.

Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed – but we know the places and times that offer the best chances.

On the road: At most seven guests travel in a Toyota Land Cruiser built for gravel and sand — a window seat and a single seat for everyone. Nobody sits in the second row, and nobody is in your frame.

Sketch of the LeafLove Safari Land Cruiser with its pop-up roof open – guests watching wildlife through binoculars

Description:

“Ondili Meumbo” means “I am at home” in the language of the Ovambo, Namibia’s largest ethnic group. The name is the plan: fifteen days to the finest highlights of the country, staying inside private nature reserves rather than beside the through road.

The collaboration with the Ondili Lodges grew out of a weekend spent together in their reserves. What convinced us was the idealism behind it — a real commitment to leaving nature alone and running the places sustainably. Alongside them we picked two further lodges that protect vast areas and return a large share of their earnings to the surrounding habitat.

The route runs from the Kalahari over Sossusvlei and Swakopmund to the Spitzkoppe, on to Twyfelfontein and its desert elephants, and into Etosha National Park — central and eastern, as far as the Andoni plains.

The real advantage sits in the price: you pay the local direct rate for a class of accommodation that is normally traded a good deal higher. High quality and sustainable, without mass tourism.

Karte

Route map Ondili Natura and Ondili Meumbo: Namibia round trip from Windhoek via Etosha, Damaraland and Twyfelfontein to the Namib Desert and Sossusvlei
Click to enlarge

Overview

Day 1

Arrival at Windhoek International Airport. After we’ve picked you up from the airport, we’ll drive into Namibia’s capital, Windhoek.
...an exciting day awaits you, starting with a city tour that explores the culture and history of this modern African city.

Day 2

We travel through the camel thorn savannah of the central highlands until we reach the striking linear dune landscapes, rugged limestone ridges, and vast salt pans of the Kalahari.
The Kalahari’s sweeping red dunes are home to a remarkable variety of wildlife and birds – all set against a classic African backdrop.

Days 3 & 4

Sossusvlei – home to the highest dunes on Earth.
An endless sea of orange sand, sculpted by the wind and ever-changing in the shifting sunlight. The dry Tsauchab River winds through this dramatic landscape and has carved out one of its most striking geological landmarks: the Sesriem Canyon.

Days 5 & 6

Swakopmund is a small coastal town where there is plenty of time for strolling. In good weather, you can even sunbathe, visit modern and colonial landmarks, and enjoy coffee.
A very charming, romantic town, with diverse tidal areas and bustling dunes... a place where one could easily extend their stay.

Day 7

The smooth granite walls of Spitzkoppe distinctly tell visible stories of hunting scenarios and wildlife, painted by indigenous people.
An inselberg rises from the flat terrain, featuring breathtakingly impressive granite formations and rare flora, where special birds can also be found.

Days 8 & 9

Twyfelfontein & Desert Elephants, Rock Engravings, and Burnt Mountains.
Here, the towering Ana Trees, also known as "Winter Thorn Acacias," grow, producing red pods – a delicacy for desert-dwelling elephants.

Day 10

Etosha National Park - Central
Etosha National Park is one of the richest wildlife parks in Africa! Naturally, you can spot numerous animals during your drive. With a bit of luck, you may have optimal observations of elephants and big cats – patience and an early start often pay off here.

Days 11 & 12

Etosha National Park – East & the Andoni Plains
Thicker bush, more springs, more game. Lions and leopards show themselves here more than anywhere else in the park, cheetahs prowl Fischer's Pan, and elephants, giraffes, zebra, oryx, and kudu roam freely. Add shy dik-dik, blue cranes, and the odd rhino — then head north to the open Andoni Plains....

Days 13 & 14 - natural

Mount Etjo & the Okonjati Game Reserve
Nestled at the foot of striking red rock formations, Mount Etjo Safari Lodge sits within the vast Okonjati Game Reserve. Founded in 1975, the reserve spans 36,000 hectares and is home to around 10,000 animals and over 600 bird species. On an open 4x4 game drive with experienced guides, you'll have the chance to spot elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, and much more in their natural habitat.

Days 13 & 14 - classic / luxury

Leopards, Brown Hyenas & Prime Photo Opportunities at Okonjima
Here you'll encounter far more than the big cats you came for. At the AfriCat Foundation, wild leopards are almost guaranteed and brown hyenas frequently seen, while the elusive pangolin can be tracked down on request. Open 4x4 game drives with expert local guides — with special attention paid to photographers — offer a rare, up-close look into the African bush and the foundation's conservation work.

Day 15

Departure
Now you've had a taste, and we know you'll be back! Until then...

Accommodation Categories

Every traveller is different. Some prefer to explore Namibia as economically as possible, while others place greater value on atmosphere, exclusivity or truly exceptional locations. That is why we offer our journeys in three accommodation categories, each with a significant influence on the overall tour price. Regardless of the category you choose, every lodge is personally selected by us. We place far greater importance on character, genuine hospitality, location and an authentic Namibian experience than on the number of stars.

natural

Perfect for travellers seeking excellent value without compromising on cleanliness, comfort or a welcoming atmosphere. We select charming guest farms, intimate lodges and high quality glamping tents with private en suite bathrooms. While some properties may be slightly larger, we always prioritise character, beautiful surroundings and the distinctive LeafLove style.

classic

By far our most popular category, offering outstanding value for money within the upper mid range. You will stay in carefully selected lodges with comfortable rooms, attentive service and beautiful locations. Whenever possible, we favour smaller, owner managed properties with genuine character and charm.

premium

For those who regard their accommodation as an integral part of the travel experience. Stay in exceptional lodges set in spectacular locations or within private nature reserves. The higher price rarely reflects luxury alone, but rather the exclusivity, remarkable settings and unforgettable experiences that these extraordinary places provide.
Detailed itinerary

Day 1

People, colours, shopping, and culture



inclusive:

Overnight stay with breakfast

not inclusive:

Dinner, which is a la carte in town

Windhoek, the colourful bustle of Africa

Total distance: 47 km
Total driving time: 1 hour

After your arrival in Windhoek, an exciting day awaits you. It begins with a city tour where you’ll get to know the culture and history of this modern African city – from historic architecture to modern commercial buildings that reflect Windhoek’s diverse past.

Afterwards, enjoy a shopping stroll through the city centre, where you can browse local craftsmanship – from hats to authentic “veldskoen” shoes.

To round off this day full of discoveries, we’ll take you to a great restaurant.

 

Day 2

red sand, ancient trees


inclusive:

  • Full-board
  • 1 game drive into the linear dunes not only showcase impressive landscapes but also provide an opportunity to observe a variety of birds and different animals.

Rippling linear dunes of the Kalahari

Total distance: 242 km
Total driving time: 4 hours

Our journey takes us through the Camel Thorn savannah of the central plateau until we reach the diverse linear dune landscapes, crusty limestone ridges, and expansive salt pans of the Kalahari. The most captivating feature of the Kalahari reveals itself in its colours! With dark orange-hued dunes and brown-green Camel Thorn woodlands, the Kalahari is a true paradise for photographers. Along our route, you can discover gigantic Sociable Weaver nests in ancient Camel Thorn acacias. With a bit of luck, you may even encounter a Cape cobra, which often raids the nests of communal birds. We also observe a variety of wildlife, including gemsboks, springboks, frequent kudus and zebras. We particularly enjoy sightings of ground squirrels and other small mammals like meerkats.

Days 3 & 4

… home to the world’s tallest star dune


inclusive:

  • Full-board
  • Excursion to the Sossusvlei

Dune landscapes at Sossusvlei, the Sesriem Canyon & breathtaking desert scenery

Total distance: 264 km to the lodge (+ 202 km return to the Vlei)
Total driving time: 4 hrs 45 min (+ 5 hrs 30 mins return to the Vlei)

The Namib Desert captivates with its vast, open spaces and dramatic, almost surreal beauty. Despite its arid nature, it is home to a surprisingly rich diversity of life. Particularly striking are the towering dunes, among the highest on Earth, glowing in the soft morning light.

The Tsauchab dry riverbed, once flowing towards the ocean, was blocked by the dunes and formed the iconic Sossusvlei – a clay pan framed by ancient camel thorn trees and hardy !Nara plants, encircled by majestic red star and crescent dunes.

A short climb onto the dunes rewards you with unforgettable panoramic views. The Sesriem Canyon, carved by the same Tsauchab River, offers another geological wonder. In earlier times, ox wagon drivers had to tie together six leather straps to reach water at the bottom – giving the canyon its name. A short walk into this natural chasm is highly recommended – it’s well worth it.

Recommendation: Glide over the Namib Dune World in a Hot Air Balloon

There are those things you just have to experience! Weather permitting (as it can get very windy), the hot air balloon from Namib Sky takes off amidst the dunes and hills on the gravel plains of the Tsauchab. Enjoy a beautiful view of the dune and mountain landscapes and the interplay of various colourful scenery in the morning light.

Important:

If you wish to take a balloon ride, it would be advisable to extend your journey by an additional day!

Days 5 & 6

moderate climate…


inclusive:

  • Overnight stay and breakfast


not inclusive:

  • Dinner (there are various restaurants in Swakopmund, and we are happy to assist and reserve a table for you…) In different high-quality establishments, you can enjoy a wide selection of fresh fish and delicious seafood daily. For those who prefer hearty meat dishes, authentic roast pork of the finest quality is also served here.

Optional activities around Swakopmund:

Living Desert / Little Five Tour:

The best-known activity around Swakopmund. Discover the Namib’s remarkable small creatures and how they’ve adapted to one of the most extreme landscapes on Earth.


Swakop Fatbike Tours:

Explore the dunes on specially designed fatbikes – the wide tires make riding through the sand surprisingly easy and offer a fresh perspective on the desert.


Scenic Flights over the Namib:

An unforgettable experience over the dunes to Sossusvlei or along the Skeleton Coast. We particularly recommend the two- to two-and-a-half-hour flight.


Historical Walking Tour:

A guided walk with a true Swakopmund local – history, background stories, and little-known secrets of the town, straight from the source.


Walvis Bay – Catamaran Cruise:

About 30 km south lies Walvis Bay, home to an 11,000-hectare lagoon and an important wetland. During the cruise, you’ll encounter flamingos, pelicans, seals, dolphins, and, with luck, whales or sunfish – topped off with fresh oysters and a glass of sparkling wine.


Walvis Bay – Kayak Tour:

For a more immersive nature experience: paddle the lagoon and get within a few meters of curious seals, enjoying the tranquility of this unique coastal landscape from a whole new perspective.

Through the oldest desert to the Atlantic…

Total distance: 370 km
Total driving time: 6 hours 45 min

Gravel plains stretch out before us, the horizon shimmering in the heat, mountains rising here and there in the distance. Long, straight roads are occasionally traced by thin plumes of dust. We wind our way through granite rock formations, ancient erosion valleys, and dry riverbeds. A profound silence hangs over the land – yet giraffes appear now and then, zebras and antelope more frequently still.

Along the way, we stop at the world-famous “Welwitschia mirabilis,” a plant some 1,500 years old, pass through fields of lichen, and cross the eerie “moon landscape” carved by the dry Swakop River.

Swakopmund itself is a small coastal town made for lingering. On a good day, there’s time to sunbathe, wander past colonial and contemporary landmarks, or settle in for a coffee. Independent roasteries, a well-known gin distillery, artists working in every conceivable style, and an unmistakably laid-back atmosphere all conspire to make you want to stay a little longer. The town is also home to the country’s finest private museum, a crystal gallery, and a small sheltered cove known simply as “the Mole.”

Day 7

Magmatic, gigantic and beautiful


  • 1 night in an enchanting landscape with a stunning view of the gigantic Hohenstein, an impressive granite boulder, at a carefully selected lodge.
  • natural:  Hohenstein Lodge – Standard
  • classic / luxury: Hohenstein Lodge – Superior Chalet

inclusive:

  • Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast

Spitzkoppe & the mighty Erongo

Total distance: 200 km
Total driving time: 3 hrs 30 mins

In the distance, the most famous “inselberg” in Namibia, the Spitzkoppe, rises like a natural monument from the flat gravel plains of the Namib. The smooth granite walls of the Spitzkoppe bear clearly visible stories of hunting scenarios and wildlife, painted by indigenous people. The landscape imparts a fairytale-like impression and provides breathtaking photo opportunities. The gigantic granite spheres of the Erongo are truly impressive, and visitors feel almost “dwarfed” between the towering rock walls of these magma mountains. Exploring this region on hikes or walks reveals some legendary rock paintings, semi-endemic bird species, and a remarkable semi-desert flora.

Days 8 & 9

Rock Engravings & Pachyderms in the Desert


 

inclusive:

  • Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast
  • Guided tour to the petroglyphs at Twyfelfontein. Guided (we know our way around) 4×4 game drive in the Awa-Huab dry riverbed to track down the desert adapted elephants.

Twyfelfontein & Desert adapted Elephants

Total distance: 250 km
Total driving time: 4 hrs 45 mins

A fascinating highlight is Twyfelfontein, known for its 4,000 to 6,000-year-old petroglyphs, the “Burnt Mountain,” and the basalt “Organ Pipes.” Around 200 million years ago, massive mudflows carried giant prehistoric “Cordaites” trees here from Central Africa, burying them under layers of mud. Cut off from oxygen, they petrified – these “petrified trees” appear today as a remarkable geological formation.

The dry Huab River carves its way westward through this geologically striking desert landscape. Here grow the giant Ana trees, also known as “camel thorn acacias,” which produce red pods – a delicacy for the region’s desert-dwelling elephants.

The day trip to see the desert elephants is undoubtedly one of the absolute highlights of this journey. Searching for these unique, desert-adapted giants takes us through breathtaking landscapes – an experience that captivates on its own, even before, and if, the first elephants come into view.

Day 10

Lots of them Animalia


  • 2 nights in the central area of the National Park at an enchantingly beautiful private lodge outside the park

  • Etosha Oberland Lodge

inclusive:

  • Full-board

Etosha National Park – central

Total distance: 320 km
Total driving time: 6 hrs

The Etosha National Park is one of the richest wildlife parks in Africa, despite being relatively dry. The over 4,000 km² salt-pan generates artesian springs on the southern shore, known as “contact springs.” Especially during the somewhat drier and warmer seasons, a variety of wildlife gathers here.
The central area is more open and covered with acacias, while the middle part features a dense mopane forest.
In the east, you’ll find a dry woodland. Each of these vegetation types harbours different species of animals.

During your drive, you can naturally spot numerous animals. With a bit of luck, you may have optimal observations of elephants and big cats – patience and an early start often pay off in this regard.

Days 11 & 12

Even more animals…


inclusive:

  • Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast

Comfortable seating for proper photography…

be wise and drive with us


Our Land Cruisers, specially modified for wildlife observation, feature wide window seats, and the roof can be raised at waterholes. This allows you to comfortably take photographs while sitting or standing.

Etosha National Park – east

Total distance: 190 km
Total driving time: 11 hrs 30 mins (slow drive through the park)

We understand that many of our guests come to Namibia primarily for wildlife observation, which is why we’ve planned two nights in the eastern part of Etosha National Park. Out here, the bush thickens, the springs run more freely, and the wildlife seems to know it — the slightly more abundant vegetation and numerous springs guarantee a higher density of animals than elsewhere in the park.

Lions and leopards prowl this corner of Etosha more visibly than anywhere else, while cheetahs make regular appearances at Fischer’s Pan. Elephants amble past in loose herds, giraffes tower over the acacia, and zebras, oryx, and kudu graze the open plains. Look closer and you’ll spot shy dik-dik, elegant blue cranes, and — if fortune favors you — a rhino stepping out of the treeline. The Andoni Plains to the north add their own reward: wide-open grassland where the animals gather in the open, and the light does the rest.

Category „natural“

Days 13 & 14

Preserve with ideology


“Give more back to nature than you take”
This is the guiding philosophy — and the goal — of Jan Oelofse, a world-renowned conservationist who founded the Okonjati Game Reserve in 1975.

inclusive:

  • Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast
  • 2 x game drives in an open 4×4 vehicle

Okonjati – Home of Mount Etjo

Total distance: 376 km

Total driving time: 5 hrs 45 min

Today’s route takes us to the striking red rock formations of Mount Etjo, set within dense acacia savannah. This region lies within the Okonjati Game Reserve, founded in 1975 by Jan Oelofse. Over three decades, he expanded the reserve to 36,000 hectares, now home to around 10,000 animals and more than 600 bird species. Despite its name — “Place of the Buffalo” — no buffalo actually live here.
Wildlife in the region is diverse, including greater kudu and warthog, while the landscape is dotted with termite mounds reaching up to five metres in height.
On an exciting game drive in an open 4×4, accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll have the chance to spot elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, and many other animals roaming in their natural habitat.

Category „classic / luxury“

Days 14 & 15

Great all year round…


 

inclusive:

  • Dinner, overnight stay and breakfast
  • 1 x Leopard Tracking Drive
  • 1 x Endangered Species Drive

The Africat Foundation – Leopards, Cheetahs & Brown Hyenas

Total distance: 343 km
Total driving time: 4 hrs 45 mins

On today’s route lies Okonjima, home to the AfriCat Foundation – an organization dedicated with great commitment to the conservation and research of African wild cats. Spotting wild leopards here is almost guaranteed, and brown hyenas are regularly seen as well. The elusive pangolins can only be tracked down on request and with a dedicated search.

We take part in game drives with local guides/experts in open 4×4 safari vehicles, included as part of the stay. Photographers get their money’s worth, as their needs are given special consideration. The well-guided game drives offer insight into nature and the project’s work.

Optionally, Lake Otjikoto can also be visited along today’s route – a large sinkhole of mysterious beauty and as yet unexplored depth.

Day 15


Hope to see you again… soon

Farewell to Namibia

Total distance: 262 km
Total driving time: 4 hours

The final “travel day” moves along at a steady pace, ensuring there’s still enough time in the capital – for example, to pick up some Namibian handicrafts as souvenirs or enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants. In the afternoon, we’ll take you to the airport or to a recommended accommodation and arrange your transfer if needed.

Inclusions:

Exclusions:

indicative Rates for 2027

Please contact us for your individual direct rate, as prices may vary depending on the travel season, booking date, and selected room category. We will be delighted to create the ideal combination of accommodations and services, tailored specifically to your preferences.

Participantsnaturalclassic / premium
1 Person17.293,00 $21.870,00 $
2 Persons10.626,00 $15.167,00 $
3 Persons8.403,00 $12.932,00 $
4 Persons7.293,00 $11.816,00 $
5 Persons6.626,00 $11.145,00 $
6 Persons6.181,00 $10.698,00 $
7 Persons5.864,00 $10.379,00 $
Single occupancy +1.033,00 $1.781,00 $

Frequently asked questions about the Ondili Meumbo guided safari

This trip is designed to cater to a broad range of interests, and you will have suitable weather for your observations at various locations throughout the year. If you are particularly interested in wildlife observation, this journey would be ideal from May to November. If you wish to savor the fantastic desert landscapes, February, March, and April would be very suitable.

 

Yes, this safari offers a very diverse mix of various attractions, a variety of landscapes, wonderful botany, a good insight into Namibia’s rich history, and the opportunity to see a wide range of animals.

 

Certainly, you tell us what particularly interests you, and we will adjust the itinerary accordingly.

This trip offers an exclusive experience in extremely comfortable accommodations, far removed from the usual, disruptive routine of tourism. The accommodations themselves are already a highlight, situated amid breathtaking landscapes that are privately protected and surrounded. Through a direct collaboration, we can offer you this trip at a direct price, making it a particularly attractive offer.

In a time when flight bookings are just a few clicks away, it may seem old-fashioned to involve a travel agent. But when it comes to navigating the ever-changing world of air travel—delays, reroutes, strikes, cancellations, and the charming surprise of “you no longer have a seat”—working with a real human still has very real advantages when unexpected challenges arise, such as:

  • Delays and last-minute flight changes

  • Strikes or changes made by the airline

  • Seat changes without prior notification

  • The need to rebook during your trip

Especially in those moments—just imagine being on safari while these changes occur—it is incredibly helpful to have a reliable contact person who handles everything quickly and professionally.

Our Recommendation:

Even if booking flights through a travel agency may seem slightly more expensive, it is absolutely worth the investment. The service, support, and peace of mind it provides, particularly in problematic situations, are priceless.

We’ve had consistently excellent experiences with the following agencies – they are professional, fast, and reliable.

Important:

Please make sure to always mention that you are booking through Leaflove Safari / Albert Voigts.

This is the only way we can ensure that all flight times are accurately recorded and that we can coordinate with the agents to perfectly align the itinerary with your travel plans – e.g. for organizing transfers, airport greetings, or handling last-minute changes.

Namibia:

Anja Badenhorst – Tokkies Travel

📱 +264 81 249 8760

✉️ ticketing@tokkiestravel.com

➡️ Anja has already assisted many of our guests – reliable, fast, and solution-oriented.

Sonja Etzold – Molo Africa Travel

📱 +264 81 202 6002

✉️ sonja@moloafricatravel.com.na

➡️ Sonja is also highly experienced and particularly helpful when it comes to last-minute rebookings.

An offer especially for you! Simply let us know your change requests in this form.

send us a non-binding inquiry for 'Ondili Meumbo - guided'

This safari was last updated on 7. October 2026 @ 6:50

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