Peru

Peru: general info for travelers

Peru is a country in South America known for its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. It is home to ancient archaeological sites such as Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, and Nazca Lines, which attracts millions of tourists every year. Peru has a diverse geography ranging from the high Andes mountains to the arid sands of the Atacama Desert and the lush Amazon basin. Its capital city, Lima, is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modern and colonial architecture, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture. The country is also known for its colorful festivals, music, dance, and art.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Peru, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Peru: places to visit

1. Machu Picchu: This ancient Incan city is by far the most famous tourist attraction in Peru. The ruins are located high in the Andes Mountains and are considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Machu Picchu was originally built in the 15th century and abandoned a century later. It was rediscovered in 1911 and has since become a symbol of the Incan Empire.
2. The Sacred Valley: The Sacred Valley is located in the Andes Mountains and is home to numerous Incan ruins and archaeological sites. It is also a great place to experience traditional Andean culture and traditional daily life of the people who live there.
3. Lima: Lima is Peru's capital city and offers a unique blend of modern and ancient culture. The city is known for its colonial architecture, museums and galleries, and world-renowned cuisine.
4. Lake Titicaca: This is the highest navigable lake in the world, located on the border between Peru and Bolivia. Visitors can take boat tours of the lake and visit the floating islands of Uros, which are entirely made of reeds.
5. Nazca Lines: These ancient geoglyphs are found in the Nazca desert and are over 2000 years old. The lines are a series of geometric shapes and animals that were etched into the sand by the Nazca people. They can only be seen from the air, making for a unique and awe-inspiring experience.
6. Colca Canyon: This is one of the deepest canyons in the world and is a popular destination for hiking and bird-watching. The canyon is also home to traditional Andean villages and hot springs.
7. Chan Chan: This is the largest pre-Columbian city in South America and was once the capital of the Chimu Kingdom. The ruins of the city feature impressive adobe architecture and offer a glimpse into pre-Columbian life in Peru.
8. Cusco: This ancient Inca city was once the capital of the Incan Empire and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and Incan ruins and is considered to be the gateway to Machu Picchu.
There is more to see and do in Peru: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Peru: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Peru, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Peru has a diverse climate that varies depending on the region, as it encompasses high Andean peaks, tropical rainforests, and a long coastline. Generally, the best time to visit Peru is during its dry season which is usually from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally sunny, dry, and warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In the Andean highlands, the dry season is also the peak tourist season, with clear skies and cool temperatures during the day and freezing temperatures at night. The rainy season in this region starts in October and lasts until April, seeing heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. On the coast, the weather is warm and sunny all year round, but it can be overcast and foggy during the cooler winter months from June to September. In the Amazon, the weather is humid and hot, with rainfall throughout the year. The best time to visit the Amazon is during the drier months from June to September as it makes it easier to explore the rainforest and its wildlife. It's always recommended to check the weather forecast before traveling to Peru as it can be unpredictable.

Peru: activities and what to do

There's no shortage of activities and sports to enjoy in Peru! Here are some popular options: 1. Trekking and hiking: Peru has some of the most scenic hiking trails in the world. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the Ausangate Trek, and the Colca Canyon Trek are just a few examples.
2. Surfing: Peru is a great destination for surfing, with waves on both the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. Some popular surfing spots include Cabo Blanco, Chicama, and Mancora.
3. Mountain biking: There are many mountain biking trails, ranging from easy to advanced, including the Sacred Valley, the Colca Canyon, and the Apurimac Canyon.
4. Rafting: The Peruvian Andes provide countless opportunities for rafting and kayaking. Some popular spots are the Urubamba River, the Apurimac River, and the Cotahuasi Canyon.
5. Paragliding: Flying high above the stunning landscapes of Peru is a unique experience. Some popular paragliding destinations include Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa.
6. Climbing: Experienced climbers can attempt to scale some of the highest peaks in South America, such as Huascaran, Alpamayo, and Ausangate.
7. Sandboarding and dune buggy rides: Sandboarding down the dunes of Huacachina or cruising through the desert in a dune buggy is an exhilarating experience.
These are just a few examples of the many activities and sports you can enjoy on your holiday in Peru.

Peru: few words on history and culture

Peru has a rich and diverse history and culture, spanning back over 5,000 years. The ancient Inca empire is perhaps the best known period of Peruvian history, having ruled much of the Andean region from the 13th to the 16th centuries. The Incas were famous for their complex social organization, impressive architecture, and advanced agricultural techniques, including the creation of impressive terraced agricultural platforms.
Another important period of Peruvian history occurred during the Spanish conquest and colonial period, which began in the 16th century. The Spanish introduced Christianity, which helped to shape the identity of contemporary Peru. The country gained its independence from Spain in 1821 and since then has developed a unique identity that merges indigenous traditions with colonial and modern influences.
Today, Peruvian culture is a fusion of indigenous, African, Spanish, and other immigrant cultures. It is expressed in its music, art, literature, food and festivals. Some of the most popular cultural traditions include the colorful festivals of Cuzco, the music and dance of the Andean region, and the textiles and crafts of indigenous communities. Additionally, Peru is known worldwide for its cuisine, which is considered one of the best in the world.

Peru: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Peru depends on where you are coming from and where you want to go within the country. If you are coming from overseas, the most common means of transport is by air through the Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, which is the main airport in Peru. From there, you can take domestic flights to other cities within the country such as Cusco, Arequipa, and Iquitos.
If you are already in South America, you can also reach Peru by bus or by car. Peru has land borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile.
Within the country, there are many options to get around such as by bus, train, taxi, or rental car. However, it's important to note that the road system in Peru can be rough and many places are only accessible by bus or plane.
When visiting popular destinations such as Machu Picchu, it's recommended to take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes and then take a bus or hike to the ruins. To hire a car to visit Peru, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Peru: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Peru with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of Peru's main typical foods and their descriptions: 1. Ceviche - This dish is made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, peppers, and spices. Ceviche is typically served with sweet potato and corn.
2. Lomo Saltado - This is a stir-fry made with beef, onions, peppers, and tomatoes, all cooked in a pan and served with rice and french fries.
3. Aji de Gallina - This is a creamy chicken dish made with yellow chili peppers, bread, and walnuts. It's usually served with boiled potatoes, rice, and olives.
4. Anticuchos - These are skewers of grilled beef heart, marinated in spices and served with boiled potatoes and corn.
5. Pisco Sour - This is a popular cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg whites, shaken and served with ice.
6. Cuy - This is a roasted or fried guinea pig served with potatoes and vegetables. It's a traditional dish from the Andean region of Peru.
7. Rocoto Relleno - This is a stuffed chili pepper dish filled with ground beef, onions, and spices, then baked with melted cheese on top.
These are just a few examples of the delicious foods you can find in Peru. There are many other options to explore when planning a trip to Peru.

Peru: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Peru is generally an affordable country for tourists, with a relatively low cost of living. However, the prices of goods and services can vary depending on the region and type of activity you engage in. For example, major tourist destinations like Machu Picchu and Cusco tend to have higher prices for tours and accommodations. On the other hand, smaller and less popular cities or towns may offer more affordable options.
It's also worth noting that the exchange rate of your currency can significantly affect your budget. US dollars are widely accepted in many parts of Peru, but it's best to have Peruvian Soles on hand for smaller transactions and local markets.
Overall, Peru is a great destination for budget-minded travelers, especially if you are willing to do some research and plan your itinerary carefully.

Peru: where to find accodation

There are several ways to look for accommodations in Peru. Some popular options include: 1. Online booking platforms: Websites such as Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia offer a variety of accommodations in Peru, ranging from hotels to apartments and even hostels.
2. Local travel agencies: Many travel agencies in Peru offer accommodation packages along with their tour services.
3. Official tourism websites: The official tourism websites of cities and regions in Peru often provide information on local accommodations.
4. Word of mouth: Ask locals or other travelers for recommendations on good places to stay in Peru.
5. Guidebooks: Guidebooks such as Lonely Planet and Rough Guides provide comprehensive information on accommodations in Peru.
You can check hotel prices in Peru here:
Booking.com

Peru: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Peru is a popular tourist destination in South America, and it receives approximately 4 million international tourists annually. The busiest tourist seasons in Peru are generally during the summer months (December to March), as well as during holidays such as Easter and Christmas. Additionally, certain areas and attractions in Peru can become crowded during peak tourist season, such as Machu Picchu and Cusco. It's always a good idea to plan ahead and make reservations as early as possible if you're traveling to Peru during these times.
Peru is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any other destination, there are precautions you should take to ensure your safety. It is recommended to avoid certain areas, such as the outskirts of Lima and other major cities after dark.
In Lima, it is recommended to avoid the districts of Callao, San Juan de Lurigancho, and San Juan de Miraflores, which have a higher rate of crimes such as theft and assault.
In general, it is advisable to stay in well-lit areas, not carry large amounts of cash on you, be aware of your surroundings, and take licensed taxis rather than hailing one on the street.
It is also recommended to be cautious when visiting remote areas, as there have been instances of robbery and piracy in some areas.
With proper precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Peru.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Peru on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Peru: events for tourists

Peru has many interesting events for tourists that vary throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular: 1. Inti Raymi (June 24th): This is the Festival of the Sun, celebrated in Cusco with parades, processions, and dances.
2. Carnaval (February/March): This is the biggest and most colorful celebration in Peru, with water fights, music, dancing and processions in many cities.
3. Lima Gastronomic Fair (September): This food festival is considered one of the best in the world, with top chefs and foodies from around the globe attending.
4. El Señor de los Milagros (October): This is a religious festival in Lima, where thousands of people dressed in purple and white take part in a devotional procession.
5. Qoyllur Riti (May/June): This is a colorful, spiritual pilgrimage that takes place in Cusco, ending in the Sinakara Valley.
6. Festival de la Vendimia or Grape Harvest Festival (March): This festival takes place in Ica, South of Lima, and is focused on wine tastings, cultural displays, and lively music and dance.
These are just a few examples of many events that Peru has throughout the year, make sure to check the dates and locations before planning your trip to Peru.

Peru: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Peru, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is a recommended two-week itinerary for a tourist visiting Peru: Day 1-2: Arrive in Lima, explore the city and visit the historical center Day 3-4: Fly to Cusco, acclimate to high altitude and explore the city Day 5-8: Take a guided tour of the Sacred Valley, including the famous Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Maras salt mines Day 9-10: Visit Lake Titicaca, known for its beautiful scenery and rich culture Day 11-12: Fly to Arequipa and visit the beautiful Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world Day 13-14: Return to Lima and explore the modern districts of Miraflores and Barranco, enjoy the food, culture, and nightlife.
This itinerary will provide a good mix of cultural and natural experiences in Peru, and offer a good understanding of the country's rich history and natural wonders.

Peru: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Peru described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Abancay is a city located in the southern region of Peru, specifically in the Apurimac region. It is situated at an altitude of 2,377 meters above sea level and has a population of around 60,000 peopl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abancay
- Arequipa is a city located in southern Peru. It is the second most populous city in the country after Lima. Arequipa is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, including the famous Santa Catali... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arequipa
- Ayacucho is a city located in the southern highlands of Peru. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, as well as its beautiful colonial architecture and traditional crafts. Ayacucho wa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ayacucho
- Cajabamba is a small town located in the northern highlands of Peru, specifically in the region of Cajamarca. It is situated at an altitude of 2,701 meters above sea level and has a population of appr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cajabamba
- Cajamarca is a small city situated in the northern highlands of Peru, at an altitude of over 2,700 meters (8,900 feet) above sea level. It is known for its rich history, as it was the site of the famo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cajamarca
- Caral is an ancient city in Peru that belongs to the Norte Chico civilization. It is located in the Supe Valley, approximately 200 kilometers north of Lima. Caral is considered one of the oldest citie... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caral
- Catacaos is a small town located in the Piura region of northern Peru. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite artisanal crafts. The town has a colonial-style center, filled with colo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Catacaos
- Cerro de Pasco is a city located in the central highlands of Peru, at an altitude of over 4,300 meters above sea level. It is known for its mining industry and was once one of the richest silver-produ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cerro de Pasco
- Chachani is a massive dormant volcano located in the Southern Peruvian Andes, near the city of Arequipa. It has an elevation of 6,075 meters (19,931 feet) above sea level, making it the highest of the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chachani
- Chachapoyas is a charming city located in the northwestern region of Peru, surrounded by picturesque mountains, lush green forests, and sparkling waterfalls. It is the capital of the Amazonas region a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chachapoyas
- Chiclayo is a city located in the northwest of Peru, in the region of Lambayeque. It is known as the "City of Friendship" and is the fourth most populated city in the country. Chiclayo is famous for i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chiclayo
- Chimbote is a city in the Ancash Region of Peru, located on the Pacific coast. It is known for its fishing industry, which is one of the largest in the country. The city has a population of approximat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chimbote
- Chinchero is a small town located in the Sacred Valley region of Peru, near Cusco. It is well known for its beautiful scenery, traditional Andean culture, and impressive Inca ruins. The town is situat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chinchero
- Chivay is a small town located in the Colca Canyon area of Peru, in the region of Arequipa. It is mostly known as the main gateway to the popular Colca Canyon, which is one of the deepest canyons in t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chivay
- Chulucanas is a town in the region of Piura, in northwestern Peru. It is situated in the foothills of the Andes and has a population of around 60,000 people. The area is known for its traditional pott... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chulucanas
- Cusco is a city located in the southeastern region of Peru, in the Andes mountain range. It is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history and culture, as it was once the capital of the Inca... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cusco
- Huacachina is a small lake oasis located in the region of Ica, Peru. It is surrounded by sand dunes, creating a beautiful and unique landscape. The lake is said to have healing properties and is a pop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huacachina
- Huamachuco is a small town located in the northern highlands of Peru, in the department of La Libertad. It is situated at an altitude of 3,163 meters above sea level and has a population of approximat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huamachuco
- Huancabamba is a small town located in the northern part of Peru, in the department of Piura. It is situated in the Andes Mountains at an altitude of about 1,800 meters above sea level. Huancabamba is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huancabamba
- Huancavelica is a region located in the central highlands of Peru. It is known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant culture. The area is surrounded by mountains, and its capi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huancavelica
- Huancayo is a city located in the central highlands of Peru. It is the capital of the Junin Region and has a population of approximately 400,000 people. Huancayo is known for its beautiful colonial ar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huancayo
- Huanchaco is a small beach town in Peru located on the northwestern coast of the country. It is known for its long beach and iconic reed boats called "caballitos de totora". Huanchaco is a popular des... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huanchaco
- Huaraz is a city located in the Andean region of Peru. It is the capital of the Ancash Region and is situated at an altitude of 3,090 meters above sea level. The city is surrounded by stunning mountai... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huaraz
- Huarmey is a coastal town and district located in the Ancash region of Peru. It is situated approximately 300 kilometers north of Lima, the capital city of Peru. Huarmey has a population of around 30,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huarmey
- Huánuco is a city and region located in central Peru, in the Andean highlands. The city has a population of approximately 200,000 people and is located at an altitude of 1,904 meters above sea level. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Huánuco
- Ica is a city and region located in southern Peru, along the coast of the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its desert landscape, wine production, and archaeological sites. The Nazca Lines, a series of a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ica
- Ilo is a coastal city located in the southern part of Peru, near the border with Chile. It is situated on the Pacific Ocean and is known for its beautiful beaches and fishing port. The city has a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ilo
- Iquitos is a city located in northeast Peru, near the Amazon River. It is the largest city in the world that is inaccessible by road, and can only be accessed by boat or plane. The city is the capital... CONTINUE here for a trip to Iquitos
- Juliaca is a city located in the southern highlands of Peru, situated at an altitude of over 3,800 meters above sea level. It is the second-largest city in the region of Puno and serves as an importan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Juliaca
- Lima is the capital and largest city in Peru, located on the central coast of the country. It has a rich history dating back over 1,000 years, and is known for its colonial architecture, museums, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lima
- Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It was built in the 15th century and abandoned sometime during the 16th century. The site was rediscovered in 1911 and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Machu Picchu
- Mancora is a lively beach town located in the northern region of Peru, known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and great surfing opportunities. The town is located about 1,170 kilometers from L... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mancora
- Maras is a small town located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in Peru. It is famous for its salt mines that date back to pre-Inca times, and where salt is still produced using traditional methods. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maras
- Moyobamba is a city located in the Amazon region of Peru, specifically in the San Martín region. It has a subtropical climate and is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a popular destination for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Moyobamba
- Nazca is a small town located in the desert region of southern Peru. It is famous for the Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, which depict various animals, plants,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nazca
- Ollantaytambo is a small town located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru. It is known for its well-preserved Inca ruins, which include the Ollantaytambo Fortress and the Temple of the Sun. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ollantaytambo
- Paita is a coastal town located in the northern part of Peru, in the region of Piura. It is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and seafood cuisine. Paita is also a commercial port, with va... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paita
- Palpa is a small town located in the region of Ica, south of Lima, Peru. It is situated in the Palpa district, which is known for its pre-Columbian archaeological remains and for being a convenient st... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palpa
- Paracas is a small coastal town located in the Ica Region of Peru, approximately 250 kilometers south of Lima. It's well-known for its exquisite beaches, rich marine life, and the natural reserve of P... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paracas
- Perugia is a city located in the central region of Italy, in the province of Umbria. It has a population of approximately 170,000 people and is known for being a cultural and artistic hub with rich hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Perugia
- Pisco is a small city located on the southern coast of Peru, about 225 km south of Lima. It is known for its historical past, beautiful colonial architecture, and famous grapes used to produce the epo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pisco
- Piura is a city located in the northwest of Peru. It is the capital of the Piura region and is known for its warm climate and beautiful beaches. The city has a rich history and is home to many histori... CONTINUE here for a trip to Piura
- Pucallpa is a city located in eastern Peru and is the capital of the Ucayali region. It is situated at the edge of the Amazon rainforest and has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pucallpa
- Puerto Maldonado is a city located in the southeastern region of Peru, specifically in the province of Tambopata. It is an important gateway to the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and hosts a variety of at... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Maldonado
- Puno is a city located in southeastern Peru and is the capital of the Puno Region. It is situated on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Puno is known for its cultural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puno
- Sillustani is an ancient archaeological site located on the shore of Lake Umayo, about 22 miles (34 km) outside of Puno, Peru. It is a pre-Incan site built by the local tribes known as the Colla peopl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sillustani
- Tacna is a city located in southern Peru, close to the border with Chile. It has a population of around 300,000 people and is known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and strategic loc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tacna
- Tambopata is a region located in the southeastern part of Peru, near the border with Bolivia. It is known for its biodiversity, with over 1,200 species of butterflies, 600 species of birds, and 200 sp... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tambopata
- Tarapoto is a city located in the San Martin region of northern Peru. It is often referred to as the "city of eternal summer" due to its warm and humid subtropical climate which is characterized by he... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tarapoto
- Tarma is a small city located in the Junin region of central Peru, approximately 4 hours east of Lima. It is often referred to as the "Pearl of the Andes" due to its beautiful landscapes and rich hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tarma
- Tingo Maria is a city located in the Huanuco region of central Peru. It is situated in the Huallaga Valley and is known for its beautiful landscapes, lush vegetation, and diverse flora and fauna. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tingo Maria
- Trujillo is a city located on the northwestern coast of Peru, in the La Libertad region. It is the third-largest city in the country, with a population of over 900,000 people.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trujillo
- Tumbes is a coastal region located in the northwestern part of Peru. It is known for its beautiful beaches, the Tumbes mangroves ecological reserve, and the Amotape Hills National Park. Its warm clima... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tumbes
- Urubamba is a town located in the Sacred Valley of Peru, 49 kilometers northwest of Cusco. It is situated at an altitude of 2,871 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 30,000 pe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Urubamba
- Yanahuara is a colonial neighborhood located in the city of Arequipa in southern Peru. It is known for its beautiful historic architecture, including a unique church with a distinctive white sillar st... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yanahuara
- Yungay is a small town located in the Ancash region of Peru, known for its picturesque landscape and rich cultural heritage. It is situated in the Callejón de Huaylas valley, surrounded by the snow-ca... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yungay
- Yurimaguas is a city located in the northeastern region of Peru, in the Loreto department. It is known as the "Portal to the Amazon" as it is one of the main access points to the Amazon rainforest. Yu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yurimaguas


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