How to Choose a Legit Trekking Company in Nepal?
While searching for the best Trekking company in Nepal, you will find many independent guides or even unregistered trekking agencies who are there just to scam you. These unregistered guides and travel agencies lure travelers with their cheapest trekking packages, fancy websites, and the cheap itineraries they create. Trekking solo is now banned in Nepal. This means every traveler is required to hire a licensed guide for their journey. You can go with the guide without booking a package with the travel agencies. Now, International portals have allowed the site guides to create their suitable itinerary and work independently. If you are considering hiring this service without involving any travel agencies, ask for their license. All the mountain and trekking guides have a license the Nepal Tourism Board issued. You can check out a sample of the license guide on Google.
Traveling with unregistered companies may look beneficial at first due to the cheap cost they provide. But you may be jeopardizing your safety and your interests during the trek.
Most of the trekking in Nepal takes place at high altitudes, for example, Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit trek, and many more. High-altitude treks have their cons, which sometimes invite dangers for travelers. In the worst scenario, if you get stuck at a high altitude due to any medical emergencies, the unregistered trekking guide and company cannot help you at all; you are all on your own during your trek. Also, it will all be your fault if you use an unlicensed trekking agent or company for your trek in Nepal.
Every traveler requires TIMS permits for almost all types of treks in Nepal. TAAN, the authorized organization responsible for issuing TIMS Cards, exclusively provides these identification documents to trekking companies. Therefore, you should seek the help of the trekking company officially registered in Nepal to acquire these permits for the treks.
In addition, we urge you to check if the company you are going for is a legally registered company under the laws of the Nepalese government or not. Also, check if the trekking companies have obtained their license from the ministries, the Nepal Tourism Board, and a member of tourism associations such as TAAN. And if you find trekking companies that meet your requirements, like Mountain Rock Treks, go for it.
Check the Legal Documents on the Agency’s Website
Nepal's popular and registered trekking companies include and display their legal documents on their official website. They do so because this is the only way to prove to the travelers that their company is not illegal and unregistered. You can anticipate the trekking agency as fake if you do not find any legal papers on their website.
However, if you find out about the company's legal papers on its official website, we advise travelers to assess whether the hiking company holds a valid operating license. If you cannot locate their license on their official website, you can cross-reference their status in recognized directories of travel agencies, such as the "General Members" list. You can check our proper license on our Mountain Rock Treks official website here for a sample of legal travel agencies.
So now you know what to look for in the trekking agencies to safeguard your trekking experience in Nepal. Every firm you search for online will claim they are best at what they do, and of course, they, too, claim to be a company with a proper license. Still, with just one first step, don't go for that trekking agency and look for more proof to determine if the travel company you choose is legit or not.
Visit the Company’s Social media Accounts.
The next best way to determine whether the trekking company is legit is to check the trekking agency's social media presence. Every travel agency has a professional profile on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
If you prefer using different social media platforms like Xing and VK, then this will be a bad idea as these platforms are not popular in Nepal. So, to get clear information on the company's social media presence, it's better to look out for their profiles on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. You can visit their social media posts and check out their experiences with the other treks and the decision to trek or not with such travel agencies in Nepal.
You can check out the sample for a legitimate travel agency in Nepal on different platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. Do not expect to have high followers on the profiles of the trekking agencies on different social media, as not all agency's social media may have higher followers. But you can get a general idea about the trekking agencies by looking at their social media profiles.
Read Online Reviews ( TripAdvisor, Google, and Trustpilot)
Local Businesses generally have very low online reviews from clients. However, the low reviews on the website and the famous travel review websites like TripAdvisor and Trustpilot do not mean they are bad. Do not look into the number of client reviews about the trekking agencies. In fact, Nepalese are generally not so much into collecting the reviews but looking at the review's quality.
Checking the website reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, and TrustPilot should be the second of your mind when deciding which company to collaborate with. Genuine customer experiences offer valuable insights into the quality of service provided by the trekking operator. Many companies indeed do not showcase their negative reviews on their websites; however, platforms like TripAdvisor can present a more unbiased perspective. You can also assess their professionalism and expertise regarding safety concerns, altitude sickness, and emergency evacuation by contacting them directly.
During your choosing process, we advise you to examine reviews of both local and short tours to determine whether the company values small-scale tours as much as their more popular images. You can also establish a selection criterion based on how they handle negative comments on these platforms, providing insight into the travel agents' commitment to customer feedback. For a sample of how the reviews look on travel review platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, and Trustpilot, click the respective links.
Ask and Check Out the Company's Business address and landline phone Number
Almost all of the trekking agencies have their company's landline number and their own company's Business address on their official website and business card. They provide their office address and landline numbers to travelers interested in trekking and invite them to visit their office. All the trekking agencies' landline numbers are registered under their own company's name, so if you are interested in their trekking packages, you can contact them.
If, for any reason, you cannot contact the respective trekking agencies, then you can search for the company on Google and get their verified address and landline number on their official website. If you are still unsure if they are genuine, you can visit the travel agency at their respective business address in Nepal. This being said, if you are interested in our trekking packages, then you can visit us at Paknajol, Thamel Z Street.
Let us tell you that the majority of these offices are small, typically consisting of just a few rooms. When you visit them, do not expect a luxurious setting rather than a modest setup.
Check out the company’s About Us section on its Website
All travel agencies, with their official website, maintain their "About Us" page. This About Us section of the website offers detailed insight into the company's team, origins, and values. For those with lingering doubts, a glimpse at the LinkedIn profiles of the company's executives can provide further clarity. Here is our about us page of the website.
Look Inside the Website’s Contents about Different Packages
During your hunt for the best trekking agency in Nepal, one of the key indicators of reliability and professionalism is the quality of content on their websites.
You may not always find the greatest design, the sleekest user interfaces, or cutting-edge designs. But, the best trekking agencies prioritize something even more than just the website design, i.e., consistently updated and informative content. A well-maintained website with clear content serves as the window into the ethos and competence of the trekking agency. Through the website's content, you can measure their commitment to providing accurate, up-to-date information about the treks they offer, their safety measures, and their overall approach to adventure tourism.
This dedication to keeping their online presence current reflects their likely dedication to clients on the ground.
Therefore, before selecting a trekking agency, take the time to explore their website's content. It will provide valuable insights into whether the agency aligns with your expectations and requirements for a memorable and safe trekking experience in the stunning landscapes of Nepal.
Ask about the Company's Payment System
During your best travel hunt process, it's always important to consider the payment methods of the Travel agencies. Genuine and reputable travel companies generally provide secure payment options like credit card payments or bank transfers. Find out if any travel agencies have these payment systems or not as an option for these payment methods ensures the safety and accountability of your funds throughout the booking process as you book your trek and tours.
However, always exercise caution while you deal with agencies that only accept cash or cheque payments. Such a payment policy may raise concerns about transparency and financial security. Therefore, always think twice before continuing.
These agencies may not provide the same financial protection and accountability level as those offering more modern and secure payment options like card payments or bank transfers like Mountain Rock Treks. You can check about our payment mode here.
What to Look Before Choosing a Trekking Company
We already have discussed what to look for in the trekking companies if they are legitimate. Now let's discuss What to Look for Before Choosing a Trekking Company. The first fact to know is that every traveler is different, and so are the travelling agencies. The ideal guide for your
The ideal guide for your needs generally depends on various factors, including your available time in Nepal, budget constraints, and past hiking experience. While these tips offer a broad overview of what to seek in a Nepali trekking guide, your specific requirements and financial considerations will ultimately affect your choice.
Experience
If you are in a dilemma about what to look at first before choosing the best trekking agencies, then look out for the experience of the travel agencies you have decided to go with. Similarly, look for travel agencies with a team of experienced owners, experienced guides and staff, and experienced agencies who know much about the environment and local culture of the area you are traveling into. Their expertise will offer valuable guidance and guarantee a trek that is both secure and delightful.
Safety measures:
Safety should be your top priority before choosing your trekking adventure in Nepal with the tour operators. Simply say, selecting the company providing the safest and most secure treks and travels in Nepal is very important. Similarly, the tour operators should provide all the necessary safety equipment that comes in handy for safety, like oximeters and first aid kits. Tour operators should also have well-organized emergency rescue procedures or even helicopter rescue operations for those travellers in need. Selecting a trustworthy company that strongly focuses on safety ensures your trekking adventure is worry-free and enjoyable.
All-Inclusive Trekking Package:
During your hunt for the best trekking agencies in Nepal for treks and tours, always compare the different travel agencies and their initial price tag. When you compare the different price ranges of different travel agencies, you know what types of services are included and which are excluded. Certain companies might lower costs by excluding amenities like cozy accommodations and guided cultural city tours before the trek.
At Mountain Rock Treks, we can assist you in processing the best trekking experience, all at a budget price. Similarly, we also offer a comprehensive and all-inclusive trekking package that provides a safe, enjoyable trekking experience.
We prioritize your safety and comfort through our short and long journey into the Himalayas. In addition, we too provide high-quality accommodation facilities and other facilities like a hot shower, private washrooms and all. Moreover, we allow you to select meals from the lodge menus, ensuring satisfaction and nutrition.
Sustainability:
When selecting a trekking company in Nepal, travelers must consider several factors before making a responsible choice. Firstly, prioritize a tour company in Nepal that supports sustainable tourism practices. Responsible travelers are responsible for minimizing tourism's adverse effects on the environment and the local community. Look out for the trekking companies in Nepal that provide sustainability, as they are most likely to prioritize positivity to the environment and local economy. Also, the operator with sustainable tourism practices shows due respect to the culture and traditions of the local community.
In addition, consider the company's commitment to safety. Look for a trekking company that prioritizes your well-being throughout the journey, with trained guides, adequate medical provisions, and adherence to safety protocols. Your safety should never be compromised.
Quality Accommodations and other services Offered
The next thing travelers should look for with the travel agency is the quality of accommodations and other services Offered. Always look for a package with the proper accommodations and other services for a trek. Regarding accommodations, we offer a variety of choices tailored to your preferences. Our reputable 3-star and 5-star city hotels guarantee comfort and satisfaction before and after your trekking adventure. We ensure your well-being throughout the trek with the best available lodges, providing a safe and comfortable nightly retreat. Plus, you'll have the luxury of a refreshing hot shower to revitalize after a strenuous day of hiking. We highly value pricing and accommodation information transparency, making providing our customers with straightforward and honest details is a top priority. With us, you will always be well-informed about what you're paying for, promoting peace of mind and confidence in selecting Mountain in Rock Treks.
All-inclusive trekking or Just a Guide Service
The trekking operators in Nepal are different, including their services, all-inclusive packages, and guide services. During your hunt, you may find the trekking guides in Nepal very expensive, which might scare you away. But do not fret, as different travel agencies offer numerous services. This being said, some agencies offer only guide survival in the trekking area or provide a rental package for inclusive options, including meals, guide services, accommodations services, permit services, and ours. The second option may be more costly than the guide option, but the best thing about the all-inclusive package is that you do not have to worry about food, permits, accommodations, and other stuff during the treks. If you go with the only guide option, you must sort out all your accommodation, food, permits, and options yourself.
Responsiveness and Communication:
While selecting a trekking company in Nepal, always prioritize responsiveness and effective communication. One of the most important aspects of the stress-free trekking experience is the ability to communicate freely with your chosen company. Therefore, always opt for the trekking agency that displays swift and clear responses to your inquiries. The tour operators' willingness to quickly address your questions and concerns expresses their commitment to your comfort and safety throughout the journey.
Clear and timely communication from the company to its travelers is important for proper preparation. So, every tour operator should ensure they have all the required information about every trek. This approach further enhances your understanding of the adventure you will take and helps prevent unforeseen or unpleasant surprises while you are on your trekking experience in Nepal.
Flexible itineraries:
When choosing a suitable tour agency and their tour packages, we advise you to get the services of a company that offers customized tours and Flexible itineraries. The idea behind choosing flexible itineraries is that you book yourself more than just a normal, non-customizable trekking package that fits your interest, length of holiday, and preferences.
A customizable and Flexible itinerary trekking package puts all your interests as your priority. A flexible and tailor-made operator in today's travel landscape, organized tours aim to accommodate a wide range of travelers, including backpackers, families, adventure enthusiasts, seniors, couples, and photographers, by providing various options. Therefore, selecting a tour operator with expertise in a flexible itinerary is important to match your specific requirements for an unforgettable travel adventure.
What To Do After Choosing The Best Trekking Agency?
As a traveler looking for a suitable tour operator, you now know what to look for in a legitimate tour operator. Similarly, we have also discussed what to look into before you choose one for your trekking experience in Nepal. So let us say now you have chosen a suitable tour operator like Mountain Rock Treks and your desired trekking package. But what after choosing a suitable trekking agency in Nepal for you? What is the next step you should take as a traveler? Let's discuss it below.
Check The Company's itinerary for safety and flexibility:
Let's say you have found the best trekking agencies you are looking for and carefully selected the best trekking package suitable to your needs and preferences. Now, the next step for you is to Visit the respective travel agency or contact them via their landline or phone number, whatever they have provided you. Moreover, the next important step for you is to examine their itinerary for safety and flexibility.
First, analyze the proposed trekking routes and activities outlined in their itinerary. Ensure the route you have been provided with is well-established and safe for trekkers to travel. Also, make sure you get enough teahouses enroute to take a rest during your trek. Also, look for detailed information on the acclimatization days included or not as gradual ascent as a gradual ascent is essential to prevent altitude sickness. Do not forget to verify the availability of experienced guides and porters who can provide support during the trek and ensure your safety.
Another equally important factor to consider is knowing the nature of the proposed itinerary and whether it is flexible and can be customized. Nature is unpredictable, and unforeseen circumstances like bad weather or health issues can disrupt your plans. Therefore, a reputable travel agency should always have a contingency plan, such as alternative routes or rest days, to adapt to changing situations.
Similarly, please inquire about the travel operator's policies regarding sudden changes to the itinerary due to unforeseen events and how they handle emergencies. Clear communication and a willingness to adjust plans are vital for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. By carefully examining the company's itinerary for safety and flexibility, you can ensure that you're prepared for any challenges that may arise during your trek and maximize your chances of having a memorable and safe adventure in the great outdoors.
Book an Expert-certified Local Sherpa Guide for Your Trek
When planning your trek in Nepal with the local tour company, your choice of Guide can make all the difference.
This is why Mountain Rock Treks and Expeditions will provide you with the best guide services at an affordable rate for your trek in the Himalayan and high-altitude areas. All our guides and porters who accompany you during your trek are licensed, trained, experienced, and committed to providing the best experience you have. Moreover, they also ensure you get all the trekking experience by being committed to roving safety and satisfaction right through your journey with Mountain Rock Treks.
Moreover, our sherpa guides have in-depth knowledge about the region, culture, religions, traditions, and terrain you travel to. Their in-depth knowledge helps travellers provide the invaluable insights and guidance they need for your treks and tours. They are your indispensable friend, flexible, and patient partner who tailors their approach to meet every traveller's unique preferences and needs. With this, you can enjoy a comfortable and unforgettable trekking experience in the Himalayan.
Choosing Mountain Rock Treks (One of Nepal’s Top Nepal Trekking Companies)
Mountain Rock Treks is one of Nepal's most chosen and famous treks and travel companies. The trekking agency specialises in arranging different helicopter tours and treks for unforgettable experiences in Nepal's Himalayas regions.
The tour agency has held its position as one of the top trek companies in Nepal and consists of a team of expert sherpa guides and porters. Similarly, they are great at arranging and organizing various treks and further offering a commitment to sustainability and safety. Not only for treks, you choose a wide range of interesting and thrilling activities, from taking a helicopter ride to Everest to trekking to the Everest Base Camp. They also specialize in personalized itineraries and provide more profound cultural insight, rendering them the perfect option for those searching for an exceptional Himalayan expedition or trek.
As a leading trekking and adventure travel company, Mountain Rock Treks, located in Thamel Paknajol, indeed provides immersive experiences and exceptional services for its clients. They focus on responsible and CO2-neutral travel and support the local communities, all while offering customized trips catering to the needs of travelers with different interests and fitness levels. Whether you are just a beginner hiker, cultural explorer, nature enthusiast, or an expert climber, Mountain Rock Treks ensures your journey is sustainable and authentic. With this feature of Mountain Rock Treks, you get to discover Himalayan's true essence.
Mountain Rock Treks is fully dedicated to adventure, focusing on organizing trekking and helicopter tours in Nepal. Founded by Mr. Deepak Pandey, a seasoned tour leader with extensive industry experience, Mountain Rock Treks provides a wide range of trekking options, including the well-known routes of Nepal and less-traveled hidden gem treks.
The company is a registered and 100% locally owned company, so you do not have to do extensive research to determine if the company is legit or not. Similarly, the company works closely with local organizations to support school and rural infrastructure initiatives. Guests have the opportunity to engage in community projects through voluntourism options. When you decide to go with us and make a reservation, you can have peace of mind knowing that you get the best trekking experience.
Mountain Rock Treks: Most Popular Packages in Nepal
Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour- 1 day
The Everest base camp helicopter tour lasting one day is the most popular tour among travellers. After booking that tour, in just 5 hours, you will reach the base camp of the world's tallest mountain. Moreover, the helicopter tour allows you to soar above the breathtaking mountains and valleys of the Everest region in a helicopter, culminating in a touchdown at the renowned Everest Base Camp. With this helicopter tour, you can enjoy the amazing wonders of nature, including the vistas of the snowy mountains, green valleys, and rocky lands. Also, you get to learn about the region's dominant local sherpa's culture and customs. This tour by mountain rock treks ensures your tours are safe and comfortable and suited to travellers' needs and preferences.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna base camp trek, both short and longer versions, takes you deep into the region of the Annapurna massif. The scenery around along the trail is somewhat different from other classic treks like everest. This is because the views around the Annapurna area are more vertical and less expansive. Simply said, during the trek, travelers can look right upto the mountains without any blockage standing tall above them. To get to the trailhead of the Annapurna base camp trek, you can take a 25-minute flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
12 days Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek ranks among the world's renowned trekking routes, as do among MRT's other trekking packages. This trek has earned its first position through its historical significance, breathtaking vistas, and the immersive experience of Sherpa culture along the journey. Nevertheless, the primary trails often become congested due to their immense popularity. Hence, we prioritize other trekking options in the Everest region, such as the Gokyo Lakes Trek, higher on our recommendation list. However, despite the crowds, the Everest Base Camp Trek remains an unforgettable adventure and deserves recognition as one of Nepal's finest trekking experiences.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit trek is often known as a trek with off-beat trails. The trek takes you to the restricted where nature and unique culture thrive. The trek, which was previously not accessible, has not been opened as new teahouses and lodges have been built enroute the trails since 2010. The trek impresses every traveller with the similar features you expect from the classical Himalayan treks i.e., excellent vistas of the peak above 8000 m, 5,000m+ pass, and lush green valleys. Despite its increasing fame and the recent development of roads, the Manaslu Circuit maintains its sense of isolation, attracting fewer hikers compared to Nepal's well-established traditional trekking routes. To reach the starting point of the trek, you'll need to take an 8-hour journey via road from Kathmandu.
Langtang Valley Trek
The Langtang trek is a truly special journey. It faced a few quiet years after the 2015 earthquake, but now it's bustling with trekkers again, thanks to the restoration of trails and guesthouses. This trek guides you through beautiful forests and up to the high alpine meadows and yak pastures near Kyanjin Gompa, a Buddhist monastery. You even have the option to take a day hike to the top of Kyanjin Ri, which offers breathtaking views. To start this adventure, you must take a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu to reach the trailhead.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit trek is a popular Himalayan trek that has become busier and less remote due to the crowds and newly built roads. These roads have shortened the "untouched" part of the trek to around 12 days of hiking. However, it's still an exciting adventure, especially when you cross the 5,416m high Thorong La pass. You might also consider taking a side trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest lakes at over 16,000 feet above sea level.
Everest Three passes trek
The Three--pass trek is a long and incredible journey taking travelers through the remote parts of the Everest region. With this trek, you will cross three high passes of the Everest region, all exceeding 5,000 meters in elevation.
It's the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the beauty of this region, and it's perfect for those who can spare three weeks for this adventure. This trek includes parts of the well-known Everest Base Camp Trek but offers even more breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. You'll cross the Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La passes, allowing you to witness the grandeur of these mountains up close. Moreover, you can combine the Three Passes Trek with other Everest Base Camp Trek variations for an even more diverse experience. To reach the starting point of this amazing journey, you can take a short 30-minute flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.
Final Say
Choosing the best trekking company for your trekking journey in Nepal is indeed a challenging task. With so many options, most travellers often find themselves in a dilemma. However, with a little research and consideration, you can make an informed decision just before you book your treks in Nepal.
To begin with, it's important to do your homework, so start by reading the online reviews about the different travel agencies in Nepal. This will provide travellers with valuable insight into the experiences of others with various trekking companies. Similarly, pay attention to different factors related to the trekking experience, such as safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
As a Next step, verify the trekking company's legal certificates. Ensure they are registered with the Nepal Tourism Board and have the necessary permits to operate in the trekking regions. Legitimate companies like Mountain Rock Treks will readily provide you with this information and answer any questions regarding their companies and their treks.
Initiating direct communication is another key step. As a traveller, you need to contact the trekking companies you are interested in and ask them questions about their itineraries, guides, equipment, and safety measures. A trustworthy company like Mountain Rock Treks will be responsive and clear, properly addressing your concerns.
Consider seeking recommendations from fellow travellers, friends, or travel forums. Personal experiences and referrals can provide valuable insights into the quality of services offered by different trekking companies.
Last but not least, always remember there is no definitive "best" for the trekking company in Nepal. Every company is unique and great on its own and strives to be the best in its way. Therefore, as a traveller, you must find a legitimate, reliable company that matches your preferences, interests, and expectations. Once you've researched and made an informed choice, you can rest assured that you're in good hands for your trekking adventure in Nepal.
If you are still not confident about how to look for the best company to trek with in Nepal, then do read our blog above. By following the above methods and conducting thorough research, you can differentiate between fake and legitimate companies. Instead of just finding the "best," focus on selecting a company that suits your requirements.
FAQS About Best Trekking Company In Nepal
What Does the reputation of the trekking agency Mean?
The reputation of the trekking company generally refers to the overall perception of the company. To know how well the company is doing, you can check out the reviews of the trekking company on platforms like Google, TripAdvisor, and Trustpilot. Similarly, read the comments about that trekking exercise with the tour company and also ask your friends about it.
Before booking a trekking tour in Nepal, it's important to research the trekking company. Established companies with several years of experience, like Mountain Rock Treks, are usually a good choice. Check the company's website for information about them, and take a look at their social media to see their client relationships and popularity among trekkers.
Does the Representative of the trekking company provide you with enough information before the trek?
Certainly, if you are a traveller who is a total beginner and does not know anything about the treks, you can ask questions before making any commitments or payments. And as a company's representative, they will provide you with all sorts of information you need before your trekking journey starts. Many companies already share a lot of information on their websites, but you can also reach out to them through email, Whatsapp, or Viber to ensure you have all the necessary details. You can also contact them via social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, and many companies will respond and provide you with the information you need, especially if you're a foreigner.
Is the trekking agency legally verified?
Before you make any payments or book any treks, always check if the company is legally verified or not. You can examine if the company is legally verified or not by examining the registration number or licence of the company. Also, check if the company has been authorised by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), and Trekking Agencies Association Nepal (TAAN) or not.
What are the cancellation penalties?
Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, you must change your plans, even if you were fully sure they'd go smoothly. Be sure to review the cancellation regulations of the Nepal trekking agency. Also, cancelling a tour can often result in fines, especially during peak trekking seasons when these fines can be substantial.
Is the agency giving you discounts or a low-cost Trek package?
Prices of the treks tend to rise when they are most in demand during the peak season, like in the Autumn and Spring months. However, most of the discounts on different trekking packages are offered by most tour agencies during the off-season and festive times. Still, be very cautious of the tempting offers offered to you. While they might initially be enticing, be especially alert when encountering them. Agencies typically don't profit from offering discounts, so if they're pushing discounted tours strongly, it's worth questioning their financial position and intention.
