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Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge
Canyon Lodge

About Canyon Lodge

Canyon Lodge (formerly Cañon Lodge, or even Canon Lodge) lies in the 1,270km² Gondwana Canyon Park, just ...

... 20km from Namibia’s iconic Fish River Canyon. Tucked away from the canyon edge among deep-red granite boulders, or kopjes, the lodge’s lush lawns are an oasis of green in this arid environment.

Canyon Lodge is probably our first choice on the southern side of Fish River Canyon for most travellers. The chalets are designed to fit among and between huge granite rocks, and the lodge's main area has quite a “cosy farmhouse” atmosphere. We think that it's a lovely place to stay for exploring the canyon, either driving yourself or on one of the lodge's guided trips. If you’re visiting in winter, just be aware that this area can get quite cold.

Our view

Canyon Lodge is probably our first choice on the southern side of Fish River Canyon for most travellers. The chalets are designed to fit among and between huge granite rocks, and the lodge's main area has quite a “cosy farmhouse” atmosphere. We think that it's a lovely place to stay for exploring the canyon, either driving yourself or on one of the lodge's guided trips. If you’re visiting in winter, just be aware that this area can get quite cold.

Tom Morris

Tom Morris

Country manager: Namibia

Accommodation

30 chalets

Children

best for 6+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Private activities

Private activities

Self-guided walking

Self-guided walking

Traveller reviews of Canyon Lodge

104 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


90%
104 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
58
Good
41
Average
4
Poor
0
Terrible
1
Mr&Mrs SfromArni CH

Arrived 15 Nov 2024, 2 nights

"Canyon Lodge review"

"Very nice 2-3hrs. walk (marked with poles) to the "Hole in the Wall" and back …" Read Mr&Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs H fromLeicester

Arrived 9 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Fantastic location, great staff"

"The cabins are beautifully located amongst the rocks …" Read Mr & Mrs H ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs H fromVictoria

Arrived 3 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Canyon Lodge review"

"has an amazing location - room was great, liked the rock in the bathroom! …" Read Mr & Mrs H ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs MfromCambridge

Arrived 19 Apr 2024, 2 nights

"Canyon Lodge review"

"beautiful grounds,lovely staff, fabulous swimming pool, excellent sundowner hike …" Read Mr & Mrs M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

JDfromHarrogate

Arrived 6 Nov 2023, 2 nights

"Canyon Lodge review"

"Very warm welcome from the staff …" Read JD’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

ExplorerfromDan Brownlee

Arrived 29 Jun 2023, 2 nights

"Canyon Lodge review"

"Beautiful setting and location to visit FRC. Great service, food and bevrage …" Read Explorer’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs RfromSyderstone

Arrived 7 Sep 2022, 2 nights

"Canyon Lodge review"

"...very well maintained and comfortable …" Read Mr & Mrs R’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs KfromSouthamptn

Arrived 27 Jul 2022, 1 nights

"Great views at Canyon Lodge "

"chalet cleverly designed around the rocks, views were amazing, buffet delicious …" Read Mr & Mrs K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr LfromLeicestershire

Arrived 11 Sep 2019, 2 nights

"Good"

"Good but our room was a long way from all amenities which was a bind. Staff …" Read Mr L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr & Mrs GfromCottenham

Arrived 23 Nov 2018, 2 nights

"Amazing Lodge "

"We loved this lodge. …" Read Mr & Mrs G’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Canyon Lodge reviews

Safaris visiting Canyon Lodge

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Map

Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari

19 days • 10 locations • 2 country
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.

Visiting Okonjima, Namib-Naukluft and 7 other areas

US$4,160 - US$4,270 per person

Read more about the Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari

Canyon Lodge: Our full report

Canyon Lodge (formerly Cañon Lodge, or even Canon Lodge) lies in the 1,270km² Gondwana Canyon Park, just ...

... 20km from Namibia’s iconic Fish River Canyon. Tucked away from the canyon edge among deep-red granite boulders, or kopjes, the lodge’s lush lawns are an oasis of green in this arid environment.

Canyon Lodge has the most attractive setting of the three camps within the Gondwana Canyon Park, which is also home to the simpler Canyon Roadhouse and Canyon Village.

Dotted amongst the huge boulders at Canyon Lodge, and reached along stone pathways, are 30 relatively rustic chalets. Some of these are crafted to incorporate the rocks as an internal feature, lending an individual, almost cave-like feel, yet all follow the same broad formula. Outside, each has a small sitting area, with a stone table and metal chairs, while inside, they are quite rustic but comfortable, with twin beds mosquito nets and bedside tables. En-suite bathrooms are large enough for a hot shower, flush toilet and hand basin, as well as a mirror and shelves, and toiletries are provided.

The Fish River area is known for is extremes of temperature. In the hot summer months the chalets are kept pleasantly cool by their stone walls and floors, and thatched roofs – aided by air conditioning and electric fans. During Namibia's coolest months, hot-water bottles are placed in the beds to help take the edge off the chilly evenings. However, the small windows make them quite dark inside, and on our last visit in May 2018 we couldn’t help but think that a little more natural light would be welcome.

At the heart of Canyon Lodge is an old farmhouse, which today plays host to the reception and curio shop – stocked with a variety of locally made items – plus a large restaurant with individual tables, a separate, well-stocked bar and a self-service tea and coffee station. The building is mostly of natural stone, so again feels rather dark, but equally this helps to keep the interior cool in summer, and there are several cosy fireplaces for those colder winter nights.

Running along the back of the building is a large veranda where individual tables are set out under shady, tall camelthorn trees – a great place for a meal or just to sit and enjoy the views.

On many visits to Canyon Lodge we have consistently been struck by the immaculate garden: bursting with colour, including beautifully kept green lawns, and even a small mini-golf course! Quite an achievement considering that the lodge sits in the heart of a desert environment. Indeed, gardening is important to the lodge's owners, who take pride in their 'self-sufficiency' credentials. The grass and plants here are kept alive with recycled and treated grey water, and many of the salads and vegetables served in the restaurant are grown on their farm at Kalahari Farmhouse.

A considerable walk from the main area, in a peaceful and isolated spot down a long pathway beyond the chalets, is a stunning turquoise swimming pool with beautiful views. Comfortable loungers and plenty of shade make this a good place to relax, and there's also an honesty bar and towels for guests to use.

Activities at Canyon Lodge are often arranged in conjunction with its sister properties Canyon Village and Canyon Roadhouse. Options include a sunrise walk, a 6km morning hike, drives to Fish River Canyon, nature drives in the park and sundowner activities. That said, organisation of the activities here was a little haphazard on our last visit, so we would recommend booking the night before to guarantee space and ensure that everyone know what you are intending to do. That said, most travellers with their own car will want to drive to the viewpoints of the Fish River Canyon, just 23km away, to take in the spectacle and explore for themselves. Despite the scale of the canyon, there is little development in this area, and you don’t need to go far to get away from other travellers.

Geographics

Location
Fish River Canyon, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
2–3 nights
Directions
Canyon Lodge is in the Gondwana Canyon Park near to the Hobas entrance of the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park and the main Fish River Canyon viewpoint.
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Bed & Breakfast
Food quality
When we last visited Canyon Lodge in May 2018, meals were simple and a little hit and miss. That said, many of the ingredients are fresh from the Gondwana self-sufficiency centre at Kalahari Farmhouse, including homemade salamis and cheeses, and freshly grown salads. Over the years, we have found that the lodge is attentive to dietary requirements and requests.

Breakfast is served buffet-style – a selection of fresh fruit, yoghurt from their own dairy, along with cereals, cold meats, cheese and home-baked bread. There are also, hot dishes.

Lunch is from an à la carte menu, with international-style dishes. There are sandwiches and salads for those who want a lighter snack as well as full meals such as chicken schnitzel and chips. We didn’t eat lunch on our most recent trip but we have previously enjoyed delicious chicken pitta with chips.

At dinner, a starter and dessert are served to the table, with a buffet for the main course. Following our vegetable soup our buffet was a selection of fried beef steak, vegetarian pasta, salads, boiled potatoes and cheese. Dessert was a pannacotta. The food was generally tasty, if occasionally overcooked as is often the case with large buffets.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
No
Drinks included
Drinks are at extra charge, to be paid direct at the lodge.

Special interests

Walking
Hiking at Canyon Lodge offers views across the plateau towards Fish River Canyon; in winter (Apr–Aug) the 'morning walk' covers 6km with a knowledgeable guide. For those after gentler walking in Namibia the “sunrise walk” (year-round) may appeal.
See ideas for Walking in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
All children are welcome at Canyon Lodge.
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions.
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
Canyon Lodge has a cot and a highchair for loan to guests on request.
Generally recommended for children
Canyon lodge is generally a good option for children with plenty of relatively safe space for them to explore and a pool.
Notes
Canyon Lodge is set among high granite kopjes which, while spectacular, could pose a danger to children who are tempted to climb. Children must be supervised at all times by their parents.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Canyon Lodge

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Canyon Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Oryx

85% success

Zebra

62% success

Wildebeest

27% success

Giraffe

23% success

Black Rhino

0% success

Brown Hyena

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a generator back-up in case of mains power failure, although in May 2018 this was rather slow to kick in and we were left without electricity – and thus air conditioning – for over an hour.
Communications
The main areas have free WiFi.
TV & radio
There is no television or radio at the lodge
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
All bathrooms have plentiful hot running water and flush toilets.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
No
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Keetmanshoop. In case of any emergency, guests can be airlifted to Windhoek.
Dangerous animals
Low Risk
Security measures
Canyon Lodge does not have a security guard, but there is a night bell at the entrance to the reception area which will alert the manager on duty.
Fire safety
There are no fire extinguishers outisde the chalets and in the main area.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Private activities

    Private activities

  • Self-guided walking

    Self-guided walking

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
The lodge offers laundry facilities at an extra charge.
Money
Canyon Lodge does not have foreign exchange facilities. There is a small electronic safe in each chalet.
Accepted payment on location
As well as Visa and Mastercard, the lodge accepts cash in Namibian dollars and South African rand.

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Canyon Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Canyon Lodge.


Other lodges in Fish River Canyon

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Fish River Lodge

Fish River Lodge

Perched on the lip of Fish River Canyon, Fish River Lodge has some of the best views of any lodge in Namibia.


93% (81 reviews)
Canyon Roadhouse

Canyon Roadhouse

Relatively close to Fish River Canyon, Canyon Roadhouse combines the feel of an old farm with an extraordinary array motor memorabilia.


88% (36 reviews)
Canyon Village

Canyon Village

Close to Fish River Canyon, the reasonably priced Canyon Village features interior walls covered in murals by Namibian artists depicting the history of the area.


91% (15 reviews)
Ai-Ais Hot Springs Spa

Ai-Ais Hot Springs Spa

The government-run Ai-Ais Restcamp is situated on a site of natural hot springs, down at the bottom of the Fish River Canyon.


73% (6 reviews)

When to go to Fish River Canyon

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Canyon Lodge in Fish River Canyon


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Namibia in January

January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.

Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
  • Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
  • Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Namibia in February

February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.

Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
  • The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Namibia in March

March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.

Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
  • Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Namibia in April

Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.

With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.

  • Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
  • Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
  • Migrant birds have started to leave
  • Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Namibia in May

By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.

Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.

May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.

  • Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
  • The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
  • Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
  • Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
  • Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Namibia in June

Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.

Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.

Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.

  • Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
  • Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
  • “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
  • Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
  • Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Namibia in July

Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ºC/70ºF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.

As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).

  • Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
  • Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
  • The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Namibia in August

August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.

It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.

Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.

  • Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
  • Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
  • Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Namibia in September

September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.

In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.

  • One of the best months for wildlife viewing
  • Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
  • Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
  • Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
  • High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Namibia in October

Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ºC/100ºF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.

In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.

  • Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
  • Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
  • The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
  • It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
  • Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Namibia in November

November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.

Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.

  • A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
  • With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
  • Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
  • Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
  • Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Namibia in December

December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!

Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.

Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.

  • Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
  • Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
  • A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
  • Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
  • Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

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