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Wild Coast Trails

Overview

The Wild Coast is one of the best kept secrets in South Africa. Long stretches of sandy beach are often completely deserted and beg to be galloped along, whilst the crashing ocean waves reveal dolphins playing in the surf. Trails also head inland through the Transkaai communities and past adobe tha…

Highlights

  • Glorious beaches and seemingly endless canters
  • Fabulous coastal views and charming accommodation
  • Watch for dolphins and whales out to sea
  • Ride inland to the Transkei and through rural villages
  • Week-long trails or centre based/shorter options

Essential Facts

  • 4 itineraries available
  • Max 8 riders per group
  • Average of 3 - 5 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: 95kgs / 210 lbs / 15 stone

Description

The Wild Coast is one of the best kept secrets in South Africa. Long stretches of sandy beach are often completely deserted and beg to be galloped along, whilst the crashing ocean waves reveal dolphins playing in the surf. Trails also head inland through the Transkaai communities and past adobe thatched huts and down into shady valleys and past waterfalls.

This is not just a beach ride - it's an adventure. Rolling hills, deep gorges and cliff tops that plunge into the ocean; exhilarating beach gallops, pristine environments and stunning views. The local Xhosa people are warm and friendly as you meander through their villages that seem long forgotten in this rural African wilderness.

Your host, Julie-Anne, has been running rides in this area for many years. Once an experienced endurance rider, she ensures that all her horses are extremely fit and easy to ride. They will all walk along the beach on a loose, long rein yet are happy to gallop when asked.

There are a number of different trail options to choose from, depending on your ability and how much time you have:

The epic Wild Coast Trail is for fit, experienced riders only as there are some long hours in the saddle and lots of fast riding is required to get to each accommodation in between tides. The route journeys along the coast and back again.

The Qolora Trail isn't as challenging as the full Wild Coast trail but is still a full week of fabulous riding.

The Short-Break Beach trail is a four night option with a mini trail - perfect for adding onto another African itinerary or for those short of time. This option is quite flexible - open all year round except Christmas and New Year and there is a horse to suit novice to experienced riders.

Cathy from Far and Ride has been lucky enough to ride here and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Horses & Riding

Tack

South African trail saddles - Leon Liversage - with a high pommel and cantle which is comfortable for long hours in the saddle. There are saddle bags attached with two water bottles and space for small essentials. Bridles are English with many snaffle bits.

Horses

Mixed breeds including Part-Arabs, Anglo Arabs, Boerperd and Percheron crosses.
Each horse has been handpicked or home bred for the purpose of trail riding. Besides good conformation and movement they are selected for their exceptional temperament and then schooled to be professional and well balanced mounts. Your guides use holistic horsemanship principles to develop trust and willingness to work in the horses, which are also kept out 24/7 and range over a huge bush-veld as a natural herd. They are barefoot and kept exceptionally fit and in endurance condition. Whilst being responsive and forward going, they will always walk on a long, relaxed rein. Their average height is 15.2hh making them light and sure-footed along the sandy beaches and rocky headlands.

Riding

There are 4 itineraries:

  • Wild Coast Trail is a trail ride
  • Mini Beach Trail is a trail ride
  • Qolora Trail is a trail ride
  • Kei River Ride is a based ride

Ages

12 years for Wild Coast Trail; Any age can be accommodated on the other trails.

Health

No specific requirements - you should be relatively fit for the Wild Coast trail and have general good health for all others.

Weight

95kgs / 210 lbs / 15 stone

Food & Accommodation

Food

Food is local, fresh and hearty.

Breakfasts are usually taken at the hotels and are self-service affairs where you can choose from a selection of cereals, rusks, bread, fruit and sometimes a cooked option.

Lunches are sometimes picnics out on the trail (sandwiches, fruit etc) or sometimes a pub lunch (basket meal or sandwich).

Dinners are taken at the hotels and will usually be a set menu although there's occasionally a choice. There is lots of good, fresh fish on offer and plenty of vegetables. Traditional South African meals are usually available as well and it's possible that you'll experience a braai (barbeque) during the week.

Drinks are to your own account. There are bars at the hotels where you can choose what you what to drink and settle up before you move on. Drinks are generally very reasonably priced and there are very good local ciders, beers and wines which are cheap.

Accommodation

The accommodation varies depending on the chosen programme - see individual itineraries for further details.

The hotels in the area are clean and comfortable, ranging from comfortably rustic to five-star luxury! This area of South Africa is popular with locals rather than overseas tourists and so the hotels reflect that, being less glamorous or modern than those you would find elsewhere. However, they each have their own charms and are beautifully situated.

Itineraries

Wild Coast Trail Standard accommodation.

Mini Beach Trail Standard accommodation.

Qolora Trail Standard accommodation.

Kei River Ride Standard accommodation.

Other Activities

It would be difficult for non-riders to join the trails as they are mobile and you move accommodation - whilst doing this is on horseback is relatively easy, the journeys by vehicle are not and involve long diversions. Non-riders could travel in the back-up vehicle with the luggage but these days would not be particularly interesting or allow for alternative activities.

Activities on offer in the area, at extra cost and payable locally include: abseiling, boat trips, deep sea fishing, golf, township tours, Inkwenkwezi Big Five Jeep safari with possible elephant and cheetah interactions.

Most of the hotels have pools and one or two have a spa too, although treatments are all at extra cost. There are some free afternoons to make use of these facilities or to go for a walk or simply watch the ocean for whales and dolphins.

Travel

There are no direct flights to East London from the UK and so it is likely that you will route through Johannesburg. There are connecting flights with South African Airways - ensure you leave at least three hours at Johannesburg airport to allow for passport control and to collect and re-check-in your luggage.

You need to arrive late morning (c. 11:30am) to enable time to ride on your first afternoon. On departure day your flight should leave 4pm or later to allow time for a morning ride.

Transfers from East London airport to Kei Mouth are at an additional cost which varies depending on how many people are in the vehicle. Group transfers are available on Saturdays to tie in with the flight timings above. The cost is then divided between everyone in the group and payable in cash to the driver. To give you an idea, the cost for one person is currently ZAR 1200 each way. Discounted or shared costs are available for groups as well - please ask.

If you arrive/depart on a different day or cannot make these times then private transfers can be arranged for you although these may be more than the group transfer.

Testimonials

Jane L., May 16, 2018

Surf and turf extravaganza! Endless beaches and rolling hills and tracks = lots of cantering and galloping opportunities. My initial worry about being the only guest quickly transformed to joy as I was looked after by the team and had great horses to ride.


Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1

Riding: 1 - 2 hours

On arrival at East London airport you will be transferred to Kei Mouth, where you will have a light lunch at the Country Club and the chance to change into your riding clothes. You then meet the horses and set off on your first ride.

This first ride is only 1-2 hours and the perfect introduction after your long flight - it's a chance to get to know your horse and the saddle - if you aren't happy with your horse then speak up as it's easier to swap now than when you're further along the coast.

Overnight at either your hosts own Guest Lodge or another in the same village, depending on numbers.

Day 2

Riding: 3 - 5 hours

Set off downhill to the Kei River which you will cross by small ferry - with the horses on board as well! You then ride over rocky headlands and along endless stretches of beach before arriving at Trennery's - a quaint, authentic hotel that remains relatively unchanged since the 1940's. Here you can stretch your legs on the beach or unwind with a beer beside the pool before dinner. 

If Trennery's is not available, then Seagull's is just a little further along the coast and you'll stop there instead.

Day 3

Riding: 5 - 7 hours

Today you will head off along the coast, covering a distance of c. 40km. You start by heading inland through rolling hills and past rural settlements where the locals still live in thatched huts, before heading back down to the beaches. You will cross a number of rivers - most likely at their source inland where they are simply a trickle and very narrow, but sometimes closer to the ocean (depending on tides and water levels). Stop for a picnic lunch on the beach before spending the afternoon riding along the endless beaches. This is your chance to really appreciate the thrill of riding your horse at speed along the sand with the waves crashing beside you.

Late in the day you reach Mazeppa Bay hotel which has its own island accessed by a suspension bridge from the beach. Relax at the bar watching the sun set over the ocean before dinner.

Day 4

Riding: 3 hours

Today's adventure takes you through The Gorge - a beautiful river gorge with some tricky terrain. After crossing the rocky river bed, you head back to the sea along valleys and riverine, reaching The Kob Inn in time for lunch.

The afternoon is free for you to enjoy this beautiful location - with a bar sat on the rocks overlooking the waves and private sheltered beaches on both sides, you can kick back and relax. During whale-watching season you may even be lucky enough to watch these huge mammals as they migrate past the hotel.

Day 5

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

After yesterday's relaxing afternoon, you will be ready for a full day in the saddle. Today's ride takes you along sheltered beaches and into hidden coves and beautiful lagoons. You will stop for a picnic lunch and a swim in a warm lagoon before heading back to the Kob Inn - I'm sure you'll enjoy yet another pacey canter through the surf!

Day 6

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

It's time to head back down the coast again. The timing of your departure will depend on the tides and you will cross rivers, climb hills and speed along beaches all the way back to Wavecrest. After a ride of c. 30km you have some spare time to relax at the hotel or perhaps make use of the spa (at extra cost). You can also choose to take a boat trip into the mangrove forests or challenge your fellow riders to a game of tennis.

Day 7

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Depart Wavecrest and continue your journey back to Kei Mouth, meandering through the villages, sand dunes and forests, as well as keeping the adrenaline pumping with regular blasts along the beach.

Your final night is spent in Kei Mouth, at one of a number of guesthouses in the area - the exact one depends on the size of the group. A final dinner and a chance to reminisce about your weeks riding.

Day 8

Riding: 1 - 2 hours

Time for one final, short ride before your transfer to the airport and flight home.

Please note that the exact itinerary is subject to local conditions, such as tides, river depths and weather, but always with your best interests at heart. Dates are set to coincide with the full or new moon for the best tides and lowest river conditions, but routes may need to be altered to keep you safe.

Accommodation

1 night Trennery's: a popular South African resort with individual cabins/bungalows set in rows on the hillside (or Seagull's if no availability).

1 night Mazeppa: slightly old fashioned feel but fabulous views of the ocean and a small island to explore across a bridge.

2 nights Kob Inn: set on the rocks beside the ocean and a beautiful spot

1 night Wavecrest: lovely individual cottages/rondavels beside the river estuary.

2 nights Kei River guest house: either your hosts own guest house which has two rooms (a double and a twin with additional
bunk bed) or a nearby guesthouse depending on numbers in group. First and Last night.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

You need to be at least a strong intermediate rider to join this trail which has some long hours in the saddle and lots of canters and gallops along the beaches.

Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

July 29, 2023 - Aug. 5, 2023

Aug. 26, 2023 - Sept. 2, 2023

Sept. 16, 2023 - Sept. 23, 2023

Sept. 30, 2023 - Oct. 7, 2023

Oct. 14, 2023 - Oct. 21, 2023

Oct. 28, 2023 - Nov. 4, 2023

Nov. 11, 2023 - Nov. 18, 2023

Nov. 25, 2023 - Dec. 2, 2023

Feb. 10, 2024 - Feb. 17, 2024

Feb. 24, 2024 - March 2, 2024

April 6, 2024 - April 13, 2024

June 1, 2024 - June 8, 2024

June 22, 2024 - June 29, 2024

July 20, 2024 - July 27, 2024

Aug. 17, 2024 - Aug. 24, 2024

Sept. 14, 2024 - Sept. 21, 2024

Oct. 12, 2024 - Oct. 19, 2024

Nov. 9, 2024 - Nov. 16, 2024

Nov. 30, 2024 - Dec. 7, 2024

Pricing

2023
Rider, Sharing
£2110 $2570 €2425
No single supplement if you are willing to share. Single rooms are subject to availability - please check with us if you would prefer your own room.
2024
Rider, Sharing
£2265 $2755 €2600
No single supplement if you are willing to share. Single rooms are subject to availability - please check with us if you would prefer your own room.
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, 5.5 days of riding, full board meals, bottled water on riding days.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, airport transfers, drinks in hotels, restaurants and bars, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2023 - Airport Transfer 1200ZAR
Paid locally
Approximate price. Transfers from East London to Kei Mouth are provided by a local taxi company and the costs are split between all riders sharing the vehicle, payable directly to the driver. If there is more than one person in the transfer then you will pay less, please check with us on booking.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: 1 hours

On arrival at East London airport you will be transferred to the Kei Mouth guesthouse for a light lunch or snack. Depending on the time of your arrival, you may be able to change into your riding clothes before heading out to meet the horses for the first time. An afternoon ride of about one hour will be offered and is a chance to try out your horses to ensure you are both comfortable with each other. You may ahve your first opportunity to canter along the beautiful beaches fo this region.

Return to Kei Mouth guesthouse for dinner and overnight.

Day 2

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Today's ride will see you head off on an overnight beach adventure! The whole day will be spent riding along the fantastic coastline with some truly phenomenal views and the chance to spot wild dolphins playing in the surf. You will have plenty of chances for long canters along the beaches and through the waves. A picnic lunch will be taken in a secluded spot along the route with some time set aside for you to soak up the sun and enjoy the surf too if you are feeling brave! Finally, you will reach the Wavecrest hotel in the afternoon.

Dinner and overnight at Wavecrest Hotel.

Day 3

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

This morning's ride departure time will be dictated by the tides - so be prepared for an early start if needed. This will also affect the direction in which you head out today as well. If the tides are good early morning then you will ride for 3 hours up the beach and come back across country, through rolling hills and traditional villages. If the tides are in your favour in the afternoon, then you will do the route the other way around as the hard, wet sand at low tide offers the best chance for exhilarating gallops.

You will return to Wavecrest hotel for lunch and in the afternoon have the option to take a boat trip up the river to explore the mangrove estuary, go for a walk, do some fish, discover the spa (at extra cost) or simply relax on the beach.

Day 4

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

After breakfast this morning, it's time to head back to Kei Mouth guesthouse. You will begin today's ride by heading inland, crossing the river high up and away from the tides. There will be opportunities for fantastic canters on the many grassy tracks on this route, before you drop back down to the beach for some final canters along the sand. Just before Kei Mouth you will have the unique experience of boarding the small pontoon/ferry with the horses to cross the river and eventually ride back up to the paddocks. A late lunch will be taken in one of the local restaurants, with some free-time to wander about before heading back to the guesthouse for dinner.

Day 5

Riding: No riding.

Depending on the time of your flight you may have the opportunity for a final short ride before you are transferred back to the airport.

Accommodation

Two nights Kei Mouth guesthouse and two nights Wavecrest hotel.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

All riding abilities can be accommodated

Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

July 17, 2023 - July 21, 2023

Aug. 7, 2023 - Aug. 11, 2023

Aug. 14, 2023 - Aug. 18, 2023

Aug. 21, 2023 - Aug. 25, 2023

Sept. 10, 2023 - Sept. 14, 2023

Nov. 20, 2023 - Nov. 24, 2023

Dec. 11, 2023 - Dec. 15, 2023

Jan. 29, 2024 - Feb. 2, 2024

March 11, 2024 - March 15, 2024

March 18, 2024 - March 22, 2024

March 25, 2024 - March 29, 2024

April 22, 2024 - April 26, 2024

July 8, 2024 - July 12, 2024

Aug. 5, 2024 - Aug. 9, 2024

Sept. 2, 2024 - Sept. 6, 2024

Sept. 30, 2024 - Oct. 4, 2024

Oct. 7, 2024 - Oct. 11, 2024

Oct. 28, 2024 - Nov. 1, 2024

Nov. 18, 2024 - Nov. 22, 2024

Nov. 25, 2024 - Nov. 29, 2024

Pricing

2023
4 night/5 day, sharing
£850 $1040 €980
2024
4 night/5 day, sharing
£905 $1100 €1040
Included Price includes 4 nights accommodation (shared rooms), 3 days riding, a test ride on arrival day (time allowing), all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day and bottled water on riding days.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, airport transfers, drinks, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2023 - Airport Transfer 1200ZAR
Paid locally
Approximate cost. Transfers from East London to Kei Mouth are provided by a local taxi company and the costs are split between all riders sharing the vehicle, payable directly to the driver. If there is more than one person in the transfer then you will pay less, please check with us on booking.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: 1 - 2 hours

Arrival at Kei Mouth Guesthouse. Time allowing you can have an introductory afternoon ride to get to know your horse.

Day 2

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Full day ride along the Morgan Bay Cliffs before heading inland, stopping for lunch at Yellowwoods along the way. Return to Kei Mouth Guesthouse

Day 3

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Cross the Kei River on the ferry with the horses and then ride along the beaches and inland past waterfalls to Trennerys. A picnic lunch is taken along the route. Overnight Trennerys.

Day 4

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

A full days ride to explore the area, including The Gates and the beaches of Qolora, returning to Trennerys to overnight.

Day 5

Riding: 3 - 5 hours

Ride along the coast to Wavecrest hotel in the morning. In the afternoon, either take a river cruise, book a spa treatment (extra cost) or take an afternoon ride. Overnight Wavecrest.

Day 6

Riding: 3 - 5 hours

Stunning morning beach ride with glorious ocean views, returning to Wavecrest for lunch. Afternoon is free to use the river paddles, book another spa treatment or perhaps ride.

Day 7

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Depart Wavecrest and ride back to Kei Mouth, either stopping for lunch at a cafe or taking a picnic along with you. Overnight Kei Mouth Guesthouse.

Day 8

Riding: No riding.

Departure after breakfast

Accommodation

2 nights Kei Mouth Guesthouse
2 nights Trennerys
2 nights Wavecrest
1 night Kei Mouth Guesthouse

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

You need to be an intermediate rider, capable in walk, trot and canter across open terrain on a well behaved horse.

Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

Jan. 20, 2024 - Jan. 27, 2024

May 8, 2024 - May 8, 2024

May 11, 2024 - May 18, 2024

Pricing

2023
Rider, sharing
£1635 $1990 €1880
No single supplement if willing to share. Limited single rooms - please enquire.
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, 6 days of riding (optional short ride on arrival day too), full board meals, bottled water on riding days.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, airport transfers, drinks in hotels, restaurants and bars, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2023 - Airport Transfer 1200ZAR
Paid locally
Approximate price. Transfers from East London to Kei Mouth are provided by a local taxi company and the costs are split between all riders sharing the vehicle, payable directly to the driver. If there is more than one person in the transfer then you will pay less, please check with us on booking.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: 1 hours

On arrival at East London airport you will be transferred to Kei Mouth guest house where a light lunch/snack is served. You will have time to change into your riding clothes before heading out to meet the horses. The first afternoon ride is about one hour and is a chance to try the horses and make sure you are comfortable. It will be your first opportunity to canter along the beautiful beaches.

Return to Kei Mouth guest house for dinner and to overnight.

Day 2

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

After breakfast you head out for a full day of riding through a kaleidoscope of rural Xhosa villages, past waterfalls and rolling hillsides and along the beaches. After a picnic lunch on the trail (pack your swimsuit as you may be able to go for a dip!) there are more waterfalls and long canters across the endless hillsides and beaches to ensure you have fully explored the area.

Return to Kei Mouth guest house for dinner and to overnight.

Day 3

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Today's ride heads in the opposite direction and explores the magnificent Morgan cliff tops where you can appreciate being on the edge of Africa perched above the ocean. Stop for lunch at Yellowwood Forest where wood-fired pizza and forest fare is on offer - this eco-friendly establishment is off the grid and recycles everything.

You finish the day by cantering down the Morgan Bay beach before heading back to the paddocks and returning to Kei River guesthouse for dinner.

Day 4

Riding: No riding.

There are two options on offer today:

Option 1: a full day ride up the coast for a pub lunch

Option 2: a Big Five jeep safari and elephant interaction at a nearby game reserve (game reserve and transfers are at additional cost and can be paid in cash or by card on-site)

Day 5

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Today you head off on your overnight beach adventure. The whole day is spent riding along the coast with fantastic views and the chance of spotting dolphins playing in the surf as you canter along the beaches. A picnic lunch is taken along the route allowing you to soak up the sun and surf before you reach your hotel in the afternoon.

Dinner and overnight at Wavecrest Hotel.

Day 6

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Your departure time this morning is dictated by the tides. You will either ride for 3 hours up the beach and back across country, through rolling hills and traditional villages, or the other way around. Either way, you will ride on the hard, wet beach at low tide for exhilarating gallops.

Return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon you can choose to take a boat trip up the river exploring the mangrove estuary, go for a walk, fish, discover the spa (at extra cost) or simply relax.

Day 7

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

Time to ride back to Kei Mouth. In the morning you head inland, crossing the river high up and away from the tides, with fantastic canters on the many grassy tracks. Drop back down to the beach for some final canters along the sand. Just before Kei Mouth you board the small pontoon/ferry with the horses to cross the river and ride back up to the paddocks. A late lunch is taken in one of the local restaurants and there is time to wander about before heading back to the guest house.

Your final night is celebrated with a traditional Braai (barbecue).

Day 8

Riding: No riding.

Depending on the time of your flight there may be an opportunity for a short ride before you are transferred back to the airport.

Accommodation

5 nights Kei Mouth guesthouse: either your hosts own guest house which has two rooms (a double and a twin with additional bunk bed) or a nearby guesthouse depending on numbers in group.

2 nights Wavecrest Hotel - lovely individual cottages/rondavels beside the river estuary.

At your hosts guesthouse soft drinks, wine and beer are included, but at other accommodations you buy your drinks at the bar.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

This ride is suitable for strong novice/intermediate riders upwards. As long as you are comfortable riding outdoors in all paces then there is a suitable horse for you to ride. More experienced riders can be split into different groups if necessary and offered faster riding.

Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

Jan. 21, 2023 - Jan. 28, 2023

May 20, 2023 - May 27, 2023

June 17, 2023 - June 24, 2023

Aug. 12, 2023 - Aug. 19, 2023

Oct. 28, 2023 - Nov. 4, 2023

Pricing

2023
Per person, sharing
£1375 $1675 €1580
No single supplement if willing to share. Single rooms are subject to availability - please enquire.
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, 5/6 days of riding, half board meals (breakfast and dinner), water, soft drinks, wine and beer with dinners at Kei Mouth guesthouse.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, airport transfers, lunches, drinks in hotels, restaurants and bars, tips and other personal expenses.

Extras

2023 - Airport Transfer 1200ZAR
Paid locally
Approximate price. Transfers from East London to Kei Mouth are provided by a local taxi company and the costs are split between all riders sharing the vehicle, payable directly to the driver. If there is more than one person in the transfer then you will pay less, please check with us on booking.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.