Protected Areas of the Amazon Rainforest

Amazon Rainforest Protected Areas 🌿

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Ecuador is home to a rich network of protected areas that safeguard the biodiversity and unique ecosystems of the Amazon. These reserves not only conserve the flora and fauna, but also provide unforgettable experiences for those who wish to immerse themselves in the magic of the jungle. Below, we will present some of the most important and well-known protected areas in the country, highlighting what makes them special and how it is possible to visit them.

Reserves and parks most well known

Protected Areas of the Amazon Rainforest

  • Cofán-Bermejo Ecological Reserve

Reserve created in 2002, located in the province of Sucumbios and surrounded by a vast territory of cloud and tropical forests. In addition to protecting endangered species such as the harpy eagle and the spectacled bear, it is also home to the Cofán, one of the oldest indigenous communities in the region. Historically, the Cofán nation has been established in this territory, whose ancestors date back more than 500 years, and who came to confront colonizers and oil exploitation in the twentieth century. You can reach the reserve from Quito by plane or car to Lago Agrio, then continue by vehicle to the reserve. Tourists can stay at nearby lodges such as Jamu Lodge and Cuyabeno lodge to better explore the region and enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching and cultural visits.

  • Cuyabeno Wildlife Production Reserve

The Cuyabeno Fauna Production Reserve was founded in 1979 with the purpose of protecting the Amazonian fauna from increasing deforestation. The area spans more than 600,000 hectares and features a network of rivers and lagoons. This reserve is also located in the province of Sucumbios and can be reached from Lago Agrio by car and then by canoe. Cuyabeno is home to several incredible species such as caimans, pink dolphins and a great diversity of birds. It is also the meeting point with indigenous communities, as from there you can visit the Siona people. To explore the reserve, Siona Lodge and Jamu Lodge are ideal options, combining comfortable accommodations with immersive nature activities.

  • Sumaco National Park

Sumaco National Park, established in 1994, stretches between the provinces of Napo and Orellana, providing scenery ranging from tropical rainforests to the majestic Sumaco Volcano. This park, less visited than others, is ideal for those who desire tranquility and a deep bond with nature. Its trails provide access to volcanic scenery, clear rivers and rainforests, making it perfect for trekking, while its biological diversity particularly fascinates birdwatchers. From Quito, it is possible to reach the park by driving to Tena and continuing on to the adjacent communities. Wildsumaco Lodge, located nearby, is an ideal refuge for explorers and birdwatchers.

  • Yasuní National Park

Yasuní, declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1989 by UNESCO, is an emblem of biodiversity worldwide. Its cultural relevance spans centuries, hosting Waorani communities and voluntary isolation communities such as the Tagaeri and Taromenane. Yasuní is known worldwide for its biodiversity, considered one of the sites with the greatest abundance of flora and fauna in the world. You can reach it from Coca through river routes in the provinces of Orellana and Pastaza. The park offers memorable experiences, such as the observation of macaws in salt licks, river tours and tours of Waorani communities. Its cultural and natural relevance make it an indispensable place for ecotourism tourists. Napo Wildlife Center and La Selva Ecolodge are outstanding lodges that merge comfort and exclusivity.

  • Limoncocha Biological Reserve

The Limoncocha Reserve, established in 1985, is located near the Napo River in the province of Sucumbíos. Archeological remains found in the region indicate the existence of pre-Columbian civilizations that used this place as a place of exchange and subsistence. Its forests and lagoons represent a valuable sanctuary for birds, such as the hoatzin, which has more than 400 documented species. Its bioluminescent lagoon is one of its main attractions, providing memorable nighttime spectacles. For their arrival, tourists start in Coca and proceed by road and river. Hakuna Matata Lodge, located a short distance away, is a great alternative for those who want comfort and proximity to the reserve.

  • El Condor Biological Reserve

This reserve, established in 1999 on the border between Ecuador and Peru, is known for its biological and cultural importance. El Condor, a vast mountain range more than 160 kilometers long, is located in the southern Amazon, between the provinces of Morona Santiago and Zamora Chinchipe. The border conflict of 1995 marked a key point, leading to the establishment of a protected area for peace and preservation. Its mountain ranges and plains are home to the spectacled bear and rare orchids. From Loja, tourists have the possibility to explore this remote area and stay at Copalinga Lodge, recognized for its proximity to bird watching areas and biodiversity.

The Importance of Nature Reserves in Amazonia

Protected Areas of the Amazon Rainforest

These protected areas are essential to preserve the richness of the Amazon, recognized as one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. They play a crucial role as barriers against deforestation and species extinction, and contribute to global climate balance by storing large amounts of carbon. In addition, many of these reserves and parks are home to unique indigenous cultures, providing them with a safe environment to preserve their traditions and lifestyles. Protecting and caring for these spaces is essential to ensure the future of the Amazon ecosystem and, above all, to allow future generations to experience its breathtaking landscapes, fauna and flora.

Conclusion

All of the protected areas in the Ecuadorian Amazon are much more than incredible landscapes; they are guardians of biodiversity, culture and history. These reserves and parks contribute not only to safeguarding unique species and vital ecosystems, but also to the well-being of indigenous communities and the education of visitors. Thanks to Responsible Travel, venturing to explore these wonderful places is easier and more sustainable, we assure you a rewarding and safe experience for everyone, learn more about us at https://ecuadorlodges.info/. Get to know the Amazon and be part of the effort to conserve and care for it!

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Viagem Incrível a Galápagos

Viagem Incrível a Galápagos, organizada por Joseph da Responsible Travel! Minha viagem a Galápagos, de 3 a 8 de dezembro, foi uma experiência inesquecível, graças ao trabalho excepcional de Joseph, da Responsible Travel. Desde o início, ele demonstrou um profissionalismo impressionante, planejando um itinerário perfeito, equilibrando exploração e descanso, e garantindo que todos estivessem confortáveis e bem cuidados. Joseph indicou passeios incríveis que realmente mostraram a diversidade e beleza única de Galápagos. Ele estava sempre disponível para esclarecer dúvidas e coordenou as atividades com excelente atenção aos detalhes, proporcionando uma viagem sem contratempos e cheia de descobertas. Com sua liderança, cada momento foi aproveitado ao máximo, e a viagem se tornou ainda mais especial. Recomendo de coração a Responsible Travel e Joseph para quem busca uma experiência autêntica e bem organizada em Galápagos.

Igor Ramos December 23, 2024

Superou todas as expectativas!

Nosso sonho era conhecer as ilhas de Galápagos e foi realizado graças ao Joseph que fez um roteiro incrível de viagem para nós e nossos amigos. Nós não tivemos que nos preocupar com nada, traslados, hotéis e passeios todos bem reservados e planejados. Nós recomendamos a empresa e os serviços do Joseph de olhos fechados.

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Roteiro perfeito e atendimento impecável

Joseph da Responsible Travel nos ajudou a planejar nossa viagem para Galapagos. Ele montou um roteiro incrível e foi muito atencioso desde o primeiro contato, estando sempre disponível para eventuais dúvidas, inclusive durante a viagem! Ficamos impressionados com a organização de todos os passeios, todos saíram no horário estipulado e não tivemos nenhum problema. Os guias mostraram muito conhecimento sobre as ilhas, além de falarem inglês e espanhol fluentes. Galápagos é um lugar único e apaixonante, e eu não vejo a hora de voltar!

Marcela Pacheco Viana December 23, 2024

A empresa foi comunicativa desde o…

A empresa foi comunicativa desde o primeiro contato. Tivemos uma ótima experiencia com o Joseph que nos orientou sobre todos os passeios e nos auxiliou em nosso roteiro fantástico. Excelente!!!

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Fue una experiencia maravillosa desde…

Fue una experiencia maravillosa desde el comienzo. Gracias a la información y consejos de Monica de Responsible travel, hubo una excelente organización desde el aeropuerto de gye donde personas nos esperaban para agilizar el viaje. En Galapagos el crucero fue fantástico. Lo volvería a repetir visitando nuevas islas.

Paulette December 20, 2024

Todo muy bien Jazmin muy atenta y pendiente de todos los detalles Excelente viaje a Galápagos un paraíso Gracias por tu ayuda Jazmin

Guillermo Aguilar Vega December 16, 2024
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EPIC Ecuadorian Trip- Dreams Come True in Ecuador!!

The customer service/advice I received from Responsible Travel is EXCELLENT. They have always been available. Jazmin, my consultant, always answered my questions very quickly, and I had A LOT. Her local knowledge of the region was invaluable, and the key to making my trip an adventure I will never forget!! The guides they put me in contact with were excellent!! I saw so many unique and RARE wildlife in Ecuador, many endemic to their country. It was truly a dream!

Sunchaser December 13, 2024

Galapagos by la pinta provides wonderful memories

Galapagos by la pinta provides an amazing experience for everyone that we have the opportunity to share those wonderful memories in the Galápagos Islands. It all started with the sales person whose name is Monica who detailed everything about the trip with precision. The boat staff are exceptional trained and performed their duties with the outmost professionalism. One thing to say THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES.

Alexy December 13, 2024

Ótimo serviço e suporte. Gaby foi a nossa consultora e estava sempre disponível para responder dúvidas, fornecer informações e foi muito flexível para adaptar os nossos planos para visitar Galápagos. O custo acabou limitando o tempo da nossa viagem, pois o nosso orçamento não era muito alto. Porém recebemos o que foi pago, com assistência constante e de alta qualidade.

Fernando Prado December 12, 2024
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Excellent experience in our Galapagos trip. Our coordinator Gabriela was very helpful and always responded immediately when we had questions. The drivers and guides were also very professional. The cost is a bit on the pricy side, but one can rest assured that the trip will run smoothly when assisted by them!

Luiza Freitas December 12, 2024
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Responsible Travel Ecuador provided excellence in all areas of the trip. Jazmin provided excellent advice, and itinerary planning based on my stated goals of observing specific wildlife! Excellent, will do business with them again in the future!

Sunchaser Photography December 10, 2024
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This agency helped us plan a memorable trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Cynthia was our coordinator, she was timely and professional with all communication and detailed from beginning to end. Cynthia was able to include everything we wanted to experience and open to our feedback to help create the final itinerary. The daily excursions were great, especially in Ecuador where we had Danny as our guide and Luis as our driver. Luis was safe and timely in all transportation and Danny went above and beyond at every step. At one point I wasn't feeling well and Danny went out of his way to find me some medicine. Danny was also extremely knowledgeable on everything.. history, the agriculture, the people.. 10/10 guide! Overall a great agency to work with!

Carmen Chegoz November 16, 2024
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Ha sido un viaje maravilloso, bien organizado, muy seguro, el guía Sebastián categoría premium sabe de todo, amable, responsable y maneja el coche de maravilla, prudente y ciertamente excepcional para su juventud. Yo repetiré viaje con esta agencia y haré Amazonia. Violeta Miguel

Violeta Mi November 11, 2024
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Monica from Responsible Travel Ecuador…

Monica from Responsible Travel Ecuador was extremely helpful, efficient and attentive. She found me an excellent offer for a cruise in the Galapagos and we thoroughly enjoyed our trip. Everything went smoothly and I can highly recommend Monica. She took care of every detail.

Marianne Jenni November 6, 2024

Cruise to the Galapagos

I was so lucky to find Gabriela! I was planning a last-minute trip to Ecuador and wanted to make the most of the limited time I had. Gabriela offered me a few different options to consider before I decided to join a cruise in the Galapagos. Once I made my decision, she went above and beyond to make it happen (I booked just two days before it started!). She was always available for any questions I had, even during unconventional hours, and her attention to detail was impressive. Even after I booked, she kept in touch to ensure everything was going smoothly. I would definitely recommend anyone planning a trip to Ecuador to connect with Gabriela. I’ll be sure to reach out to her again next time I return! Thank you, Gabi!

Yael Benninga October 5, 2024

I was so lucky to find Gabriela! I was planning a last-minute trip to Ecuador and wanted to make the most of the limited time I had. Gabriela offered me a few different options to consider before I decided to join a cruise in the Galapagos. Once I made my decision, she went above and beyond to make it happen (I booked just two days before it started!). She was always available for any questions I had, even during unconventional hours, and her attention to detail was impressive. Even after I booked, she kept in touch to ensure everything was going smoothly. I would definitely recommend anyone planning a trip to Ecuador to connect with Gabriela. I’ll be sure to reach out to her again next time I return! Thank you, Gabi!

Yael Benninga October 5, 2024
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Uma viagem inesquecível, onde tudo saiu conforme o esperado, sem falhas ou qualquer contratempo. Tudo, desde a recepção até o final foi um exemplo de competência e organização admiráveis. Equador não é um destino como outros, e no nosso caso teve roteiros variados, como uns dias na Amazônia, Cruzeiro para visitar as ilhas mais distantes de Galápagos e visita às principais ilhas. Bastante coisa pra ser organizada mas deu tudo certo. Galápagos foi incrível, a conexão com a natureza foi perfeita e eu só tenho a agradecer a Gabriela Cadena que conseguiu captar exatamente o que a gente queria e colocou no nosso roteiro tudo com maestria. Recomendo a agência e a Gabriela sem medo de errar.

Noilves Pelisser September 29, 2024
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One of the best trips of my life

One of the best trips of my life! I absolutely loved Ecuador and the variety of landscapes it offers (from the coast to the Andes and the Amazon rainforest). The trip was very well organized and made easy for us. The guides were all very knowledgeable and generally helped us have a great time. Would absolutely repeat.

Laura Sopeña Álvarez September 22, 2024

Genial, atención personalizada por parte de Santiago ( nuestro agente) desde el inicio hasta el fin del tour super preocupados por como se desenvuelve el viaje. Los recomiendo

Juan David Vaca August 26, 2024
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Excelente experiencia, agencia seria, disponible y cumplidora. Reservamos un crucero en Galápagos y la atención de Jazmín ha sido estupenda en todo momento, super recomendados.

francesco August 26, 2024
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A HUGE thank you to Responsible Travel and our wonderful coordinator Gabriela for making our August visit to the Galapagos and Amazon absolutely amazing! Gabriela catered the trip to our specific family's needs and capabilities, and every logistical step went very smoothly. The accommodations were top-notch, as were the local guides in each destination. We saw every animal we were hoping to see, and then some! We felt so secure and cared for in the hands of Responsible Travel that I've already recommended our exact itinerary to four additional families. This trip was incredible!!

Kristy Croushore August 25, 2024
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Excelente y personalizado servicio por…

Excelente y personalizado servicio por parte de Cynthia. El crucero fue fenomenal así como vuelos, traslados, guías y comidas. Sin sorpresas.

Enric Sol August 21, 2024

Servicio impecable, Cynthia nos acompañó durante todo el proceso de reserva, enviándonos información actualizada y resolviendo todas nuestras dudas vía WhatsApp casi al momento. Tanto los guías como los vuelos, crucero, comidas, traslados y actividades fueron perfectos. Muy recomendable para evitar sustos y despistes y conocer Galápagos con total comodidad.

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Effective, honest, and creative agency!

We could not be happier with our experience with this agency. The service provided by Maria Jose, who was our trip coordinator, was outstanding from day one. She made sure to understand our goals and vision for the trip, and was patient enough to work through multiple itinerary versions until we finalized it together. The chose the correct hotels, routes, and activities based on what we spoke about, and the guides/personnel on the ground that they reserved for us were trustworthy, puntual, and very knowledgeable. Every day they checked in on us with a text, to make sure that everything was going accordingly, which is a sign of excellent service. I highly recommend working with Maria Jose/Tamer and the entire Responsible Ecuador Travel team - I will do so for my next trip as well. 5/5, thank you!

Jose Garcia August 12, 2024

Great memories

Mónica was always for us available, all the staff of Galaxy Orion were really great and we had wonderful days in the boat and in Galapagos. Many thanks for all

Teresa Behrend August 12, 2024

Mi viaje con Responsible Travel

Al haber contratado un plan con Responsible Travel me di cuenta de su organización y de como pueden recomenrdarte las mejores opciones para conocer el Ecuador. Definitivamente los volveré a contratar para un futuro.

Mateo Camacho August 4, 2024

Al haber contratado un plan con Responsible Travel me di cuenta de su organización y de como pueden recomenrdarte las mejores opciones para conocer el Ecuador. Definitivamente los volveré a contratar para un futuro.

Mateo Camacho August 4, 2024
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Cynthia my contact of the agency Responsible Travel resolved all my doubts and questions of the trip. She keep me informed about muy bookings and updates of my itinerary. Also she ensure that everything went well.

Patricia Uribe August 3, 2024
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Visiting the Galápagos islands aboard…

Visiting the Galápagos islands aboard the Bonita yacht was the best decision I could have made while visiting Ecuador. It was an incredible experience that I will be thinking about until I am able to come back again. I want to thank my wonderful agent Anthony for his help in booking. He is very knowledgeable and ensured that the planning process was a breeze. Anthony checked in with us every step of the way to make sure that we were prepared and comfortable throughout the whole trip. I also want to thank the wonderful crew: Cris, Diana, Cap. Joffre, Diego, Carlos, Marcos, Marcelo, Jairo, Chef Homar, and Chef Danny. Without them, the trip would not have been as amazing and unforgettable as it was. Cris was an awesome, patient, and fun guide that explained the history and fun facts of the island very well! Chef Homar and Chef Danny cooked all our delicious meals and Chef Homar even shared with us a lesson in salsa dancing! Diana made sure that everyone was taken care of and the rest of the crew made sure that everything was smooth sailing! I can tell that this crew is really close and that they enjoy working together! I cannot recommend this experience enough, from the blue footed boobies, to the giant tortoises, to swimming with the hammerhead sharks! I hope to come back one day and bring my family and when I do, I will make sure to book with Anthony again at Responsible Travel Ecuador!

Adi Parreno June 27, 2024

Stunning experience

Incredible organization specially from Karen, who provided us all necessary information and tips for our travel. She is very professional and polite person. We recommend her services.

sandy pico May 31, 2024

Incredible organization specially from Karen, who provided us all necessary information and tips for our travel. She is very professional and polite person. We recommend her services.

sandy pico May 31, 2024
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I highly recommend Responsible Travel Ecuador. They are very professional and flexible to organize the perfect trip for you.Gabriela organized the trip for us to mainland, Amazon and Galapagos islands and she was excellent.She did everything for us and the entire itinerary was a unique experience. Our guide Wellington on the mainland was very helpful and knowledgeable and we really enjoyed our time with him!! We enjoyed every activity and will definitely return in the future to this beautiful country!!

George Liskas February 15, 2024
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Andres Garzon February 3, 2024
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Gaby did an incredible job helping me plan a trip to Yasuni National Park, Quito, and the Galápagos Islands. She took all of the stress out of finding good guides and all of the logistics involved in flights, lodging, transportation, and all of the other planning aspects of a big two week trip. Excellent communication with fast responses any time I had questions leading up to and during the trip as well. Highly recommend!

Adam Conard December 13, 2023
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The best of the best!

Amazing experience! Definitely recommended.

Dave Khandros December 1, 2023

Ethic, friendly and professional company

They are a super friendly and professional company that, as their name says, is working in an ethical and green way, which is super important in these times.

Carla Mazzini December 1, 2023

Paul our agent was wonderful; very friendly and went above and beyond to help us organise a dream holiday.

Bess Murray November 4, 2023
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Les Galapagos c'est le paradis !

Notre voyage aux Galapagos était super bien organisé, les jours avec visites autant que le temps libre ! Les hôtels choisis par l'agence étaient très confortables et accueillants, et les guides sur place super accueillants ! Aucun problème ... donc toute la famille n'a eu qu'à en profiter!

Douglas October 7, 2023

I planned a trip to South America at the last minute, and Gaby was incredible! She created an amazing itinerary with me where I was able to go to Quito, the Galapagos islands, and Cuzco Peru. It was a truly unforgettable trip, and I would strongly recommend that you consider Gaby for your next South American adventure. She can help as little or as much as you need and is extremely responsive. I am a big fan of hers now!

Gigi Z October 5, 2023
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Cuentan con paquetes muy buenos y se adaptaron a mis necesidades para viajar en crucero a galápagos

Andrés Perugachi August 31, 2023
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Felipe Villegas August 25, 2023
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Gran tour en barco de última hora

Fue una reserva de última hora de un tour en barco por Galápagos y nos ayudaron en todo momento. Grandes profesionales y el tour fue maravilloso

David B. July 19, 2023

Outstanding service

Responsible Travel Ecuador helped us find the outfit that met our needs in our visit to Galapagos. Interaction with our agent was easy and effective. She was really responsive and provided us with all the information we needed - also suggestions for further visits in Ecuador's mainland. I definitely would recommend Responsible Travel Ecuador for any travel needs in that beautiful country.

Nuria July 17, 2023

Una experiencia inolvidable con Responsible Travel: Descubriendo la magia de Ecuador

Responsible Travel es una agencia de viajes que ha dejado una huella imborrable en mi corazón. Recientemente tuve la oportunidad de explorar las maravillas de Ecuador a través de su excelente servicio, y no puedo dejar de elogiar su enfoque responsable y comprometido con la sostenibilidad. Desde el momento en que me puse en contacto con ellos, su equipo demostró una gran atención y pasión por brindar experiencias auténticas y respetuosas con el entorno local.

Gabi Ramos June 29, 2023

Fantastic Experience!

I did multiple family treks with this company and the service is impeccable. Staff always has a smile and big energy to inspire you to expand your horizons. A big shout to everyone and thank you for such a wonderful experience!

Daniel Larrea June 27, 2023

La millor experiencia per Sudamerica va…

La millor experiencia per Sudamerica va ser a L' Ecuador amb aquesta experimentada empresa que em ajudar abans, durant i despres del viatge. Totalment recomendada

Santiago Cardenas June 27, 2023

Exceptional trip to Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

Excellent & professional services! Highly recommended.

Alexander June 27, 2023
Emilia Assa April 12, 2023
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We have booked a two day tour to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, a 5 days tour in the amazonia and also arranged some private transfers with the team. I have discussed everything with Lucia who has been very helpful, always answering on time and providing the best options. Would recommend the travel agency.

Iulian Petcu March 5, 2023
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