Tour Overview
Embark on the "Jordan Active Adventure" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of Jordan's most iconic landscapes and cultural treasures. Begin your adventure in Amman, exploring the Roman ruins of Jerash and hiking from Ajloun Castle to Mar Elias Church. Experience the charm of Umm Qais with its archaeological wonders and scenic hikes. Discover the breathtaking Dana Biosphere Reserve with a local shepherd, and marvel at the ancient city of Petra via a backdoor hike. Immerse yourself in Bedouin culture with an overnight stay in Wadi Rum, complete with a thrilling 4x4 excursion. Conclude your journey with a rejuvenating float in the Dead Sea. This tour offers a perfect blend of hiking, cultural exploration, and wildlife encounters, all while traveling in comfort with private vehicles and staying in unique accommodations, including hotels, a village guesthouse, and a desert camp. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Amman/Umm Qais
Location: Amman, Jerash, Ajloun Castle, Umm Qais
Accommodation Name: Bait Al Baraka Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Arrival day. In the morning depart Amman for the well-preserved Roman archaeological site of Jerash. Have a brief welcome meeting here before your 3-hour guided visit of the impressive architectural marvel. Then, sit down for a traditional Jordanian meal for lunch at a G Adventures-supported café run and managed by women seeking financial independence.
After lunch stretch those legs on a hike from Aljoun Castle to the ruins of one of Jordan’s oldest churches. Arrive in the quaint town of Umm Qais where you will enjoy a special stay at a charming village property that works to bring travellers and locals together in an authentic blend of daily life. Sit down together for dinner and get to know each other over a home-cooked meal of regional specialties. ...more ...less
Additional Information: Please note that your flight must arrive no later than 6am in Amman in order to make your 8am group departure to Jerash. Due to this early meeting time, we strongly recommend booking pre-nights in Amman to ensure you are on time for the morning group departure to Jerash.
ACTIVITY: Today, the adventure begins. Be sure to arrive in time to meet your group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your trip.
TRANSPORT: Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Amman and Umm Qais. There will be a few stops along the way to break up the journey.
ACTIVITY: Take a step back in time visiting Jerash, one of the most well-preserved Roman sites outside of Italy. Traverse its meticulously paved and colonnaded streets, observe the grand hilltop temples, elegant theatres, expansive public squares and plazas, and well-maintained baths and fountains and city walls pierced by towers and gates – all in exceptional condition.
ACTIVITY: Take a tour of historic Ajloun Castle, one of many Crusader fortresses in the area. Learn about its interesting past, and opt to see artifacts in the castle's museum.
ACTIVITY: Set off on a lovely hike from Ajloun Castle to Mar Elias Church as a group. Walk the winding trail through fig and pear orchards, forests of oak and strawberry trees. You'll see stone walls criss-crossing the valley to guard the farmers' crops inside from winter rains and wild boar. Fnish the climb to the hilltop ruins of one of Jordan's oldest churches.
Terrain: Easy to moderate / rocky
Length: 7km (4.4 miles)
Time: 3-4 hours total hiking
ACTIVITY: Part of the G Adventures for Good program, Beit Khayrat Souf is a women-run cafe with the purpose of training and employing women to gain their own financial independence. Women manage the cafe and lead cooking classes on site. Enjoy one such cooking class during today's visit and learn how to make a traditional Jordanian meal before gathering together to eat a lunch of your efforts; an ideal way to connect with the local community .
ACTIVITY: Stay in a charming property located in the heart of Umm Qais village and experience life in this often overlooked beauty near the Yarmouk Nature Reserve. Sit down for an intimate dinner together in the cozy kitchen area and share stories over a delicious typical meal.
Day 2: Umm Qais
Location: Umm Qais, Gadara Ruins, Arab Dam
Accommodation Name: Bait Al Baraka Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Begin the day with a visit to the archaeological site and ruins that this northern town near Jordan’s borders with Israel and Syria, is famous for. After learning about the history of this area the group will set off on today’s afternoon hike to the Arab Dam which is a great trail for hikers interested in the diverse aspects of Jordan’s landscape and heritage. Return to your quaint village stay in Umm Qais for free time to try out the experiences offered to guests. Dinner will be on your own this evening in town.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Umm Qais Archaeological Site where the ruins of the ancient city of Gadara are found. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee, the site boasts an impressive colonnaded street, a vaulted terrace, and the ruins of two theatres.
ACTIVITY: Hike past the Ruins of Gadara and stop for a rest about 2km in to enjoy the surrounding views. Continue onwards to the cave of Issa and learn about its historical and spiritual influences. The remainder of the hike offers striking view points and plenty of opportunities for amazing photographs. The last part down to the dam is the best section to spot wildlife. There will be a picnic lunch along the route and it's a great way to experience a blend of Jordan's landscapes and learn more about the deep cultural heritage of this country on hikes through the very lands you will hear about.
Distance: 12-13 km
Duration: 4 hours and 45 minutes
Elevation: Between 350 and 400m
FREE TIME: EVENING Spend a free evening at your homestay accommodations in Umm Qais. There are unique experiences offered by the property and you can choose to partake in them when you return from today's hike and freshen up.
ACTIVITY: Stay another night in the quaint property located in the heart of Umm Qais village. Dinner will be on your own in the evening and you can choose to have it at your guesthouse or in town. It should be noted that the property is renowned for its delicious breakfast that is prepared by local women from the village coming every morning at sunrise to make dishes such as ‘galayet bandora’ and ‘manaqish za’atar’ with a spread of cheese, labaneh, homemade jams, and many other delicious food items.
Day 3: Umm Qais/Wādī Ḑānā
Location: Dana Biosphere Reserve
Accommodation Name: Rumana Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel to the Dana Biosphere Reserve this morning and upon arrival set off on a walk through the quaint Dana Village, perched on the edge of the epic canyon. This walk is a great way to become a little more acquainted with rural Jordanian life. The views alone make the 2km meander through the village well worth it. Arrive at your Eco-camp in the evening for free time and dinner with the group.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a walk through Dana Village offering amazing views of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. When you enter the village you will follow the main pathway through the terraced gardens, which serve as a testament to the village's agricultural practices. Then, head towards the local workshops where you can observe traditional crafts being made like weaving and pottery. You will have time to interact with the artisans and ask questions about their processes. Finish by walking through the Ottoman Houses and arriving at the top of the village for the best views.
Distance: 2km
Duration: 1.5hrs
Day 4: Wādī Ḑānā
Location: Dana Biosphere Reserve
Accommodation Name: Rumana Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend a full day hiking in the breathtaking scenery of the Dana Biosphere Reserve with a rare opportunity to step into the shoes of a local shepherd and witness the serene beauty of the country’s largest nature reserve. Walk alongside a shepherd and his herd on this guided trek and then have a hands-on moment while partaking in the daily tasks of tending to the animals. A picnic lunch will be served along the way. Return to camp in the evening to relax and have dinner as a group.
ACTIVITY: Discover the timeless traditions of Jordan with a unique "Day in the life of a Shepherd" experience in the beautiful Dana Biosphere Reserve. Witness the serene atmosphere of one of Jordan's largest nature reserves and walk along with a shepherd and one of his seasoned herds. Learn the daily rhythms and ancient practices of shepherding in a truly picturesque setting. By the end of the day you will understand the art of herding a bit more and will have tried your hand at various farming tasks. A picnic lunch will be included during the experience.
Distance: 10-12km
Duration: 10 hrs
Day 5: Wādī Ḑānā/Petra
Location: Little Petra, Petra, Wadi Musa
Accommodation Name: Seven Wonders Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive to Little Petra this morning and embark on a hike along the backdoor route to the iconic Petra. Follow an ancient trail that leads the way to this UNESCO World Heritage site through long, narrow gorges and canyons finishing at the gorgeous Monastery. A picnic lunch will be had near this deeply humbling place. In the afternoon wind your way through the famed treasury of the rose-rock city of Petra on a guided tour before continuing on to the hotel for a free evening to relax on your own.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Explore the narrow alleyway with tall cliff walls and carved rock of Little Petra, which is similar to its larger namesake. Just 9km (5.6 mi) from Wadi Musa, it's worth the visit.
ACTIVITY: Start today's hike along the back door trail to Petra. You'll visit the often overlooked, but unique and charming Little Petra and then embark along the ancient trail that leads to the back entry into Petra via the Monastery. Sit down for a picnic lunch overlooking the splendor before exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wind through the Siq, a narrow, 1km-long gorge flanked by these soaring sandstone walls standing 80m-high and catch a glimpse of this magnificent creation, the famed treasury of Petra.
Explore in depth with your CEO and get a brief history of the city, one of the greatest attractions in the Middle East. The Nabateans carved this capital from the living rock of the surrounding mountains in Petra. Visit monuments that include the Pharaoh's Castle, the triumphal arch, the amphitheatre, and the monastery.
FREE TIME: EVENING Enjoy free time at your hotel in Wadi Musa this evening.
Day 6: Petra/Wadi Rum
Location: Wadi Rum
Accommodation Name: Harb Eco Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel to the red dunes of Wadi Rum, a vast, silent landscape of ancient riverbeds and the largest and most magnificent of Jordan's desert landscapes. Arrive to your private camp in the afternoon and get settled before an included 4x4 ride through the unique landscapes and natural beauty of the area. Drive up the dunes, view amazing rock formations, and visit ancient sites where rock art is visible. Back at camp, sit down for a traditional meal and learn more about ancient Bedouin culture before a night walk to witness the unpolluted skies of Wadi Rum for yourself.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Head deep into the desert by 4x4 and enjoy the amazing natural beauty and unique landscape on this unforgettable drive. Along the way drive up red sand dunes, view stunning rock formations, and visit ancient sites to view rock art and inscriptions.
ACTIVITY: Walk out into the desert from Wadi Rum and search for stars as the sun goes down and full darkness reveals just how many were there all along.
ACTIVITY: Stay overnight in the desert, enjoying a traditional meal and learning more about the ancient Bedouin culture. Spend the evening sitting under the stars, around a fire, listening to stories from the Bedouin hosts. If really lucky, they may bring the drums out for some music!
Day 7: Wadi Rum to the Dead Sea via Wadi Araba
Location: Wadi Rum, Wadi Araba, Dead Sea
Accommodation Name: Ramada Resort by Wyndham Dead Sea
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave Wadi Rum in the morning and enjoy an exciting hike through the stunning, untouched landscape of Wadi Araba in the Jordan Rift Valley. This seldom visited area is a hiker enthusiast's dream and the perfect spot to enjoy the rugged landscape without the presence of other tourists. From here, continue to the Dead Sea for a float in the legendary healing waters and perhaps a mud bath with a unique mineral makeup and lots of salinity. In the evening, attend an optional farewell dinner with the group.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Hike through the stunning and untouched landscape of Wadi Araba in the Jordan Rift Valley. Think vast desert scenery, rolling dunes, and rugged mountains, making it truly the perfect adventurous hiking spot on the border between Jordan and Israel.
ACTIVITY: Discover the legendary healing qualities of the Dead Sea, famous for its unique mineral makeup and salinity. Spot salt chunks drifting by like icebergs on the water’s surface. Take a dip yourself and float like a buoy or cover yourself in the mud along the shore, believed to have medicinal and therapeutic benefits. There are showers nearby to wash off after.
Day 8: Dead Sea
Location: Dead Sea
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (4 nts), Homestay (2 nts), Desert Camp (1 nt). -
G for Good Moment
Participate in a Beit Khayrat Souf Cooking Class & Lunch in Jerash Governorate.
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Welcome Moment
Enjoy an Arrival Day and Morning Welcome Meeting.
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Local Living Moment
Stay Overnight at a Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum.
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Hands-On Moment
Join a Guided Trek with a Local Shepherd in Dana Biosphere Reserve.
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Jerash Guided Visit
Explore the Roman ruins of Jerash with a guided visit.
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Aljoun Castle Visit and Hike
Visit Aljoun Castle and enjoy a hike in the area.
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Umm Qais Village Guesthouse Stay
Stay at a guesthouse in the village of Umm Qais.
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Umm Qais Archaeological Site Visit
Visit the archaeological site in Umm Qais.
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Arab Dam Hike
Hike to the Arab Dam.
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Dana Village Hike
Hike through Dana Village.
What's Not Included
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Meals Not Included
Meals are generally not included when there is a choice of eating options to provide flexibility.
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Solo Traveller Supplement
Solo travellers on some itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of comfort and adventure with stays in hotels for 4 nights, a village guesthouse for 2 nights, and a unique desert camp for 1 night.
Transport
Private vehicle, 4x4, walking.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
Group Size
Max 12, avg 8.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with private vehicles, 4x4 excursions, and invigorating walks, ensuring a seamless and adventurous journey through Jordan's stunning landscapes.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Local Dress
While visiting mosques and other religious monuments you should dress modestly, cover your shoulders and you shouldn't wear short shorts or skirts. Outside of capital cities and the more touristic centres, local dress is often more conservative and as a matter of respect we ask that both men and women are aware of this and recommend loose-fitting clothes with your shoulders covered. Ask your CEO for more specific advice. ...more ...less
Important Notes
RAMADAN
According to the lunar cycle, Ramadan will fall between Feb 28th - Mar 29th 2025, and Feb 17th - Mar 19th 2026. Please note that Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world, during which time the followers of Islam should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan. Please wear loose fitting clothes, that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public out of respect for those who can't at that time.
TIPPING NOTE:
Tipping is a way of life in the Middle East. Locals themselves will usually tip anyone who provides them with services. Due to this expectation, your CEO will collect a Tipping Kitty at the start of the tour. For more details see the Tipping section below.
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Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
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About Accommodation
On this trip you can expect to stay in small local hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. ...more ...less
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I expect during the Jordan Active Adventure tour?
During the Jordan Active Adventure tour, you can expect a variety of activities including hiking through historical and natural sites, visiting archaeological ruins, experiencing local culture through cooking classes and village stays, and enjoying a 4x4 excursion in the desert. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in a guided trek with a local shepherd and enjoy a night walk in Wadi Rum. ...more ...less
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What is the accommodation like on this tour?
The accommodation on this tour includes a mix of hotels, a village guesthouse, and a desert camp. You'll stay in hotels for four nights, a village guesthouse for two nights, and spend one night in a desert camp, providing a blend of comfort and authentic local experiences.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. Meals are generally included when there are no other dining options available, but when there is a choice, meals are not included to provide flexibility.
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What should I pack for the Jordan Active Adventure tour?
It is recommended to pack clothes suitable for warm to hot days and cool evenings. A set of smart casual clothes is advisable. A backpack or medium-sized suitcase is recommended for convenience, along with a daypack for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. ...more ...less
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, you must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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What is the group size for the Jordan Active Adventure tour?
The maximum group size for the Jordan Active Adventure tour is 12 people, with an average group size of 8.
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What kind of transport is used during the tour?
The tour uses a combination of private vehicles, 4x4s, and walking to transport participants between destinations and activities.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) accompanies the group trips to take the hassle out of your travels and help you have the best trip possible. They provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. They are not traditional guides but have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Jordan Active Adventure
8 Days Starting in Amman, Jordan and ending in Dead Sea, Jordan
Visiting: Amman, Jerash, Ajloun Castle, Umm Qais, Gadara Ruins, Arab Dam, Dana Biosphere Reserve, Little Petra, Petra, Wadi Musa, Wadi Rum, Wadi Araba, Dead Sea ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26208
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
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