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12-Day Luxury Shoebill Watching & Thrilling Tour

12 Days

The 12-Day Luxury Shoebill Watching & Thrilling Tour in Uganda is an immersive wildlife and birding adventure that showcases the country’s extraordinary biodiversity, scenic beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Thoughtfully crafted for bird lovers and adventure seekers, this itinerary focuses on tracking the elusive shoebill stork in Uganda’s prime wetlands while blending in classic safari experiences and nature-based thrills.

The journey begins in central Uganda and flows through renowned shoebill habitats such as mabamba swamps and remote wetland systems, where guided canoe excursions and early-morning birding walks provide exceptional chances to encounter this iconic prehistoric bird. Beyond shoebill tracking, the itinerary unfolds into thrilling experiences including game drives in Uganda’s top national parks, boat cruises along wildlife-rich rivers, forest walks, and cultural interactions with local communities.

Carefully paced over 12 days, the12-Day Luxury Shoebill Watching & Thrilling Tour allows travelers to explore each destination in depth without feeling rushed. Comfortable safari lodges, knowledgeable local guides, and scenic drives through Uganda’s diverse landscapes—from wetlands and savannah to forests and highlands—ensure a seamless and rewarding journey. By the end of the tour, guests depart with remarkable shoebill sightings, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and a deep appreciation of Uganda as Africa’s premier birding destination.

Cost per person:

Starting from: USD $7150 (Luxury Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Jan-April$9550$7150$6950$6850$6750$6650
May- August$9750$7350$7150$7050$6950$6850
Sept- Dec$9650$7250$7050$6950$6850$6750

Cost Per Child (Discount)

Age0-2 years old3-6 years old7-10 years old11-13 years old14+ years old
Discount Rate100%65%50%15%0%

 

  • Uganda
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Budget Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • Safari Van/ 4X4 Landcruiser
  • 1-100 people
  • 1-90 years old
  • January - December
  • Entebbe International Airport
  • Entebbe International Airport

Why This Tour?

12-Day Luxury Shoebill Watching & Thrilling Tour

Get ready for an unforgettable birding adventure in Uganda! Our 12-Day Luxury Shoebill Watching & Thrilling Tour takes you on a journey to witness the majestic Shoebill stork, one of the world's most sought-after bird species. Explore the country's diverse wildlife and landscapes, from the lush forests to the vast wetlands, and experience the ultimate thrill of birding in Africa.

Ugandan Tours

You will visit Mabamba Wetland, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, and Lake Mburo National Park.

This journey begins with a visit to Mabamba Swamp, where a guided canoe excursion offers an excellent opportunity to spot the rare shoebill stork in its natural wetland habitat. The tour continues north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an on-foot rhino tracking experience, followed by exploration of Murchison Falls National Park, featuring thrilling game drives and a scenic boat cruise to the base of the powerful Murchison Falls.

From the savannah, the adventure moves to Kibale National Park for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience in lush tropical forest. The route then leads south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for rewarding game drives and a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, before proceeding to the Ishasha sector, famous for its unique tree-climbing lions.

The journey continues into the misty highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where visitors enjoy a cultural encounter with the Batwa community and a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. Afterward, the tour slows down at the scenic Lake Bunyonyi, offering relaxation amid terraced hills and tranquil waters, before concluding in Lake Mburo National Park, known for its open savannah, walking safaris, and rich plains game, before returning to Kampala or Entebbe.

As you conclude this 12-Day Luxury Shoebill Watching & Thrilling Tour in Uganda, you'll have experienced the ultimate birding experience in Uganda. From spotting the majestic Shoebill stork to exploring the country's diverse wildlife and landscapes, this journey will leave you with lifelong memories and a newfound appreciation for Africa's incredible birdlife. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just starting to explore the world of birding, Uganda will exceed your expectations and leave you wanting more.

Where is the best place to see the shoebill stork? Uganda is one of the best countries in Africa to see shoebills

Highlights

  • Gorilla Trekking
  • Chimpanzee Trekking
  • Rhino Tracking
  • Batwa Cultural Interactions
  • Game Drives
  • Boat Cruises
  • Bird Watching
  • Zip Lining
  • Shoebill Watching
  • Zip Lining
  • Ninja Warrior Challenge
  • Canoeing
  • Kayaking
  • Walking Safari
  • Horseback Riding
  • Biking
  • Birding

Tour Plan

  • Day
    1

    Arrival In Uganda | Transfer To Hotel In Entebbe

    On arrival in Uganda, you will be welcomed and picked up by our Kubwa Five Safaris
    guide, who will be holding an A4 paper with your name printed on it at Entebbe International Airport.

    You will then be transferred to your hotel where you will check in and do some relaxing for the rest of the day to wear off the jet lag.

    Meals and overnight at Protea Hotel Entebbe/ Imperial Heights Entebbe/ Hotel No.5.

  • Day
    2

    Transfer To Mabamba Swamp | Shoebill Watching | Transfer Back To The Hotel

    After breakfast, you will check out and take to Mabamba Island for shoebill watching.

    A marshy bay on the northern shore of Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp provides refuge to more than 300 bird species, most famously a rare population of the enigmatic shoebill.

    The only way to explore this Ramsar wetland is on a guided boat trip offered by the well organized community project based on its edge.

    After shoebill, you will be driven back to your hotel.

    Meals and overnight at Protea Hotel Entebbe/ Imperial Heights Entebbe/ Hotel No.5.

  • Day
    3

    Travel To Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary | Rhino Tracking | Travel To Murchison Falls National Park | Top Of Falls | Hiking | Game Drive

    After breakfast, you will be picked up from the hotel by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide and transferred to Murchison Falls National Park.

    On your way to Murchison Falls National Park, you will branch off to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking; this activity is truly one of a kind in Uganda, the pearl of Africa.

    After the rhino tracking, you will be driven to Murchison Falls National Park.

    Your first tourist attraction in the park is the top of the falls, which are the most powerful waterfalls in the whole world . It is a breathtaking experience that brings you very close to these magnificent falls, where the Nile forces its way through a gorge in the rocks and tumbles 43m below flowing westwards into Lake Albert.  The resulting mist from the turbulence often produces rainbows.

    Murchison, Top of the falls

    After seeing the top of the falls, if time allows, you will enjoy a hiking experience from the top to the bottom of the falls and thereafter en-route to your lodge, go for a short evening game drive.

    Meals and overnight at Paraa Safari Lodge / Entikko Safari Lodge / Nile Safari Lodge

  • Day
    4

    Morning Game Drive | Boat Cruise | Birding | Evening Game Drive

    After breakfast, you will set off very early in the morning for a morning game drive. You will be able to see various animals like lions, leopards, giraffes, hippos, elephants among others.
    Other activities in this game drive include bird watching and sightseeing across the open savannah, dotted woodland, and riverine vegetation along the Nile and Albert deltas.

    32 Day Thrilling African Mid-Range Safari

    After the morning game drive, you will go to the lodge to relax and have lunch.

    After lunch, you will embark (between 2pm and 4pm) on a three-hour boat cruise on the Nile. This boat cruise offers an amazing view of the falls from the bottom. Hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and aquatic birds can be seen along the shores of the river.

    Boat ride in Akagera National Park

    In the evening, you will head out for an evening game drive.

    Meals and overnight at Paraa Safari Lodge / Entikko Safari Lodge / Nile Safari Lodge.

  • Day
    5

    Transfer To Kibale National Park | Bigodi Community Walk

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kibale National park, driving Southwest through the Albertine Escarpment of the great Western Rift Valley. You will  have lunch on your way.

    On arrival in Kibale National Park, you will be driven to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a community walk and cultural interaction. It is a fascinating area, located in Magombe swamp.

    6 Days Uganda Primates Trekking Mid-Range Adventure

    Meals and overnight at Primate Lodge/ Kyaninga Lodge/ Crater Safari Lodge Kibale.

  • Day
    6

    Chimpanzee Trekking | Relaxing

    After breakfast, you will head out with your guide and a packed lunch to the park head offices for a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of chimpanzee trekking. You will start early and take about two to six hours, depending on the location of the chimps.

    Ten Best Activities At Ol Pejeta Conservancy

    The opportunity to see chimpanzees in the wild is one of the most memorable of all safari activities. Getting close to these creatures that share so much of our DNA is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the excitement of walking through the forest and knowing that they are close will stay with you forever.

    After chimpanzee trekking, you will head back to your lodge to freshen up and do some relaxing for the rest of the day.

    Meals and overnight at Primate Lodge/ Kyaninga Lodge/ Crater Safari Lodge Kibale.

  • Day
    7

    Travel To Queen Elizabeth National Park | Boat Ride | Evening Game Drive

    After the breakfast, you will go to your next destination, Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is a huge park where wildlife and people co-exist in harmony.


    Set on the Rift Valley floor in view of the snow-capped Rwenzori peaks, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers plenty of variety to safari-goers. On the Kasenyi and Ishasha Plains, large herds of Uganda kob, the national antelope, stand on constant guard for the lions that feed on them.

    On arrival in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you will go for a boat cruise on the Kazinga channel which connects Lake Edward and Lake George.

    boat ride on Kazinga chanel

    Some of the best wildlife viewings are done on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, passing squacco herons, pied kingfishers, large numbers of buffalo and hippo, basking crocodiles and very many different bird species and large mammals. This is one of the most memorable experiences from the park. Over 300 hippos are found in the lake.

    After the boat cruise, you will go for an evening game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park aiming to catch the lions hunting in the evening. Lions usually hunt when the temperatures are cooler.  We also expect to see the Uganda kob, elephants, buffalos, warthogs, leopards and waterbucks.

    kidepo valley national park Destinations Trips Big Five The Pearl of Africa Uganda Is Safe

    Meals and overnight at Elephant Pains Lodge/ Mweya Safari Lodge/ Kyambura Gorge Lodge.

  • Day
    8

    Travel To Ishasha Sector | Transfer To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Batwa Cultural Interaction

    After an early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to Ishasha Sector for the tree-climbing lions on the Kasenyi Plains. Ishasha is located in the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth.

    Queen Elizabeth national park wildlife tourism tours and travels, Mid Range Safaris in Queen Elizabeth

    Have a game drive in Ishasha, famous for its tree climbing lions. The Ishasha Sector is notably recognized for its resident tree-climbing lions which are an exceptional attraction.

    After the game drive in Ishasha it is time to move to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the famous mountain gorillas. You will have lunch en route.

    On arrival, you will check in at your lodge, then later in the evening,  you will head out for a community walk where you will visit the Batwa. This is an indigenous group of people that have lived in the forest for over 500,000 years. You will enjoy traditional dances and drama from them.

    Batwa In Uganda

    Meals and overnight at Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge/ Rushaga Gorilla Camp/ Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge.

  • Day
    9

    Gorilla Trekking | Travel To Lake Bunyonyi With 29 Islands

    After breakfast, you will head out with your guide and a packed lunch to the park head offices for a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of gorilla trekking.

    Afterwards, you will head out for gorilla trekking through the misty rain forest. Trekking lasts two to six hours, depending on the location of the gentle giants. Make sure you carry enough water, sturdy shoes, non-flash cameras, and rain jackets.

    20 Day Budget Thrilling Safari

    Spending time in the presence of mountain gorillas is a real privilege, so we are sure you will enjoy trekking deep into the forest to find them. This is one of the most memorable experiences you can have while on safari.

    At the end of this long and exciting adventure, you will be transferred to Lake Bunyonyi, which is a twisting water body, dotted with 29 islands of various shapes and sizes scattered across the water.

    Best 4 Lodges In Lake Bunyonyi

    On arrival at Lake Bunyonyi, you will check in at your lodge and relax for the rest of your day.

    Meals and overnight at Lake View Villa Bunyonyi/ Arcadia Cottage Lake Bunyonyi / Bunyonyi Luxury Resort.

  • Day
    10

    Transfer To Lake Mburo National Park | Evening Game Drive

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lake Mburo National Park. You will have an evening game drive.

    Part of the ancient Ankole Kingdom, Lake Mburo National Park is conveniently located halfway between Kampala and the Gorilla Highlands of southwest Uganda. Large carnivores are unlikely to be seen, but the park offers your best chance anywhere in Uganda of spotting an elusive leopard.

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    Lake Mburo itself is home to large numbers of hippo and aquatic birds including the localized African finfoot. Other wildlife includes buffalo, giraffe, zebra and Uganda's only population of the impala antelope (for which Kampala is named).

    Meals and overnight at Mihingo Lodge/ Kigambira Safari Lodge/ Kigarama Wilderness Lodge.

  • Day
    11

    Walking Safari | Optional Activities (Biking Or Horse Riding Safari) | Evening Game Drive

    Have an early breakfast; head out for the morning walking safari in the park. A walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park is a magical way to experience the bush trails of the park.

    walking safari

    You'll never get tired of going on a walking safari, where you'll leave behind the vehicle and step out into the wild. It can be a little nerve-wracking at first, but you'll be walking with an experienced guide and it's very safe.

    It can be a real thrill walking in this way, and most people fall in love with the experience.
    After the walking safari, you can take part in the optional activities, such as biking at 32 USD per person or horseback riding at 60 USD per person.

    Later in the evening, you will have an evening game drive.

    Meals and overnight at Mihingo Lodge/ Kigambira Safari Lodge/ Kigarama Wilderness Lodge.

  • Day
    12

    The Last Day With Us | Equator Stopover | Transfer To The Airport | Fly Back Home

    After having a delightful breakfast, you will be driven to Kampala. Along the way, you will have a stopover at the Equator in Masaka. You will be able to see where this imaginary line divides our planet into two equal hemispheres. Lunch, snacks, souvenirs and photographs may be taken here.

    You will then be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    All good things must come to an end, and your time with us on safari in Uganda will now draw to a close. We're sure that you've had a wonderful time.

Inclusions

  • One gorilla permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • One chimpanzee permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • Services of an expert guide
  • Airport transfer (Airport pick up and drop off)
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (4×4 safari Landcruiser / minivan with pop-up tops)
  • Full board accommodation and en route meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Park fees and relevant government taxes.

Exclusions

  • Airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Personal insurance
  • Expenses of personal nature, such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, and cigarettes
  • Accommodation and meals not indicated in the itinerary

Accommodation

Throughout this exciting journey, you will be accommodated in a variety of accommodations.

The accommodation is appropriate and will be determined by your budget. Kubwa Five Safaris offers the best service at every level. Kubwa Five Safaris reserves the right to substitute comparable or superior accommodations. If an equivalent standard hotel is not available, Kubwa Five Safaris may substitute the next best quality hotel or suggest a superior for an additional fee. Hotels and lodges provide free Wi-Fi.

Please see the list below for more information on the safari lodges in each national park/destination included in this tour package.

How to Get There

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Entebbe International Airport.

Kubwa Five Safaris will cater for your Airport/Hotel transfers i.e pick-ups and drop-offs provided they are to happen within your safari days with us.

Visa Applications

Please write to us for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is included in the safari package cost?

The cost covers all accommodations, meals as specified, park entrance fees, game drives, gorilla and chimpanzee permits, boat cruises, guide services, and ground transportation throughout the safari.

2. Are gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits included?

Yes. Gorilla trekking permits (Bwindi) and chimpanzee trekking permits (Kibale) are included in the total cost of the trip.

3. What should I pack for this 12-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. A full packing list will be shared upon booking.

4. Is this safari suitable for families with children?

Yes, but children under 15 are not allowed to participate in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. We offer alternative activities for young children on those days.

5. What type of accommodations are provided?

We use clean, safe, and comfortable lodges. All accommodations have private self-contained rooms; bathrooms are inside the rooms/tents.

6. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. We cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please let us know your preferences in advance.

7. How physically demanding is the safari?

While most of the safari involves vehicle-based game drives and scenic travel, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require moderate physical fitness due to hiking in mountainous and forested terrain.

8. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We strongly recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

9. What is the group size?

Our private safari is tailored to provide an intimate and immersive experience for small groups. We accommodate groups of 4 to 24 travelers, ensuring that each participant receives personalized attention and a unique safari experience.

10. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, we can tailor this safari to fit your schedule, interests, or accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Why You Should Visit Uganda?

  • Uganda

Uganda is known as "The Pearl of Africa" with good cause. It is one of the few places in the world where you may enjoy safaris, mountains, forests, rivers, and rich culture all in one trip.

It is one of just three nations where you can journey to observe wild mountain gorillas, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Meeting these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience.

The Nile River's source is in Uganda! Jinja, Africa's adventure capital, offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and relaxing sunset cruises.

What are Gorilla Tracking Rules And Regulations?

Before Departing On Your Gorilla Trekking:

  • A maximum number of eight visitors may visit a group of habituated mountain gorillas in a day. This minimizes behavioral disturbance to the gorillas and the risk of their exposure to human-borne diseases.
  • Always wash your hands before you head out to the gorillas.

On The Way To The Gorillas:

  • Please always keep your voices low. You will also be able to observe the great birdlife and other wildlife in the forest.
  • DO NOT leave rubbish in the park. Whatever you bring into the forest should be carried back out with you.
  • You will be taken to where the guides observed the gorillas the day before. From there you will follow the gorilla’s trail to find them. Look out for the gorilla’s nesting sites along the way!
  • When you approach the mountain gorillas, the guides will inform you to get ready.

When You Are With The Gorillas:

  • A seven-meter (21 feet) distance should be tried to be observed at all times from the gorillas. The further back you are, the more relaxed the group will be.
  • You must stay in a tight group whey you are near the gorillas.
  • Keep your voices down at all times. However, it is okay to ask the guide questions.
  • Do not smoke, drink, or eat when you are near the gorillas. Eating or drinking inevitably will increase the risk of food/drink morsels/droplets falling, which could increase the risk of transmission of diseases.
  • Sometimes the gorillas charge. Follow the guides example (crouch down slowly, do not look the gorillas directly in the eyes, and wait for the animals to pass). Do not attempt to run away because that will increase the risk.
  • Flash photography is not permitted! When taking pictures move slowly and carefully.
  • Do not touch the gorillas. They are wild animals.
  • The maximum time you can spend with the gorillas is one hour. However, if the gorillas become agitated or nervous, the guide will finish the visit early.
  • After the visit keep your voices down until you are 200 meters away from the gorillas.

General Health Rules:

  • Remember that mountain gorillas are very susceptible to human diseases. The following rules are ways to minimize the risk your visit might pose to them.
  • Respect the limits imposed on the number of visitors allowed with the gorillas each day. This minimizes the risk of disease transmission and stress to the group.
  • If you are feeling ill, or you are carrying a contagious disease, volunteer to stay behind. An alternate visit will be arranged for you, or you will be refunded your money.
  • If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth in order to minimize the spread of bacteria or viruses.
  • Always stay seven meters (21 feet) away from the gorillas. This is to protect them from catching human diseases.
  • Do not leave any rubbish (eg. food wrappers) in the park; foreign items can harbor diseases or other contaminants.
  • If you need to go to the toilet while in the forest, please ask the guide to dig you a hole with his panga. Make sure the hole is 30 centimeters deep and fill it in when you are finished.

What To Bring On Your Gorilla Safari:

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for steep muddy slopes.
  • Put on earplugs for those who feel uncomfortable with the jungle sounds.
  • Carry a packed lunch and enough drinking water.
  • Carry rain gear, sunscreen lotion, a hat (as the weather is unpredictable), and insect repellent.
  • Bring a photo of a film camera. Using a flashlight is not permitted so we recommend using films of 400-800 ASA.

Frequently Asked Question about Uganda

  1. When is the best time of year to visit Uganda?

Uganda is accessible at any time of year. Mountain gorilla trekking is on most tourists’ bucket lists, and permits are available all year.

Uganda is a tropical country that receives a lot of rain. The wettest months are March to May, which can make travel difficult. During the Wet Season some roads become extremely muddy and difficult to navigate.

The dry season months of June to August and December to February provide the best travel conditions, and are also ideal for Ugandan gorilla trekking. The dry season months are also ideal for general wildlife viewing in savannah reserves because animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, and the grass is shorter, making spotting easier.

2. How are the wildlife viewing opportunities in Uganda?

Uganda is home to some of the best wilderness areas on the African continent. Uganda unquestionably has some of the best and most beautiful wildlife in the world.

Uganda has a diverse wildlife population and is home to the big five game animals. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park are the best places in Uganda to see wildlife.

A wildlife viewing experience in Uganda is well worth your time and money, and it will leave you with lasting memories. Uganda, unspoiled and raw, offers a genuine sense of off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Uganda is endowed with numerous natural and cultural wonders that are largely unknown to the general public. Uganda is still relatively unknown, with the majority of tourists interviewed stating that this was their first visit and promising to return with their friends. With an astounding number of hippos, rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, gorillas, chimps, giraffes, buffalos, and other animals thriving in Uganda’s national parks, Uganda is undeniably endowed.

Uganda is home to over 350 different species of mammals of various sizes. They include large mammals such as gorillas, rhinos, hippos, chimps, buffaloes, lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and warthogs, as well as small mammals such as bats, moles, and shrews. These mammals are classified into three groups: primates (gorillas, chimps, monkeys, and others), carnivores (leopards, African wildcats, cheetahs, and others), and herbivores (Buffalos, elephants, Giraffes and more).

3. Is Uganda safe for tourists?

When traveling to urban areas, travelers should take the usual precautions for their safety and try to avoid traveling at night. Petty crime is a problem in urban areas, just as it is in all poor countries. Each national park is equipped with security personnel in order to guarantee the tourists’ well-being.

We offer expertly curated safari experiences in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Namibai. Whether you’re planning a luxury vacation, a honeymoon safari, or an adventure-packed wildlife tour, we have the perfect package tailored just for you.

+256 774313798
info@kubwafive-safaris.com

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