Nature
Araway Qhata
Araway Qhata
Araway Qhata is a mountain located south of Cusco's city center. It is characterized by a large inscription carved into its slope, which is visible from the downtown area. Travelers visit this site primarily to get a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding valley.
Getting There
The site is accessible from the city center via a hike or a short taxi ride. Depending on the mode of transport and the starting point in downtown Cusco, it typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes to reach the viewpoint.
Duration of Visit
Most visitors spend between 1 and 2 hours at the site, allowing enough time to walk up the slope and observe the city layout from the summit.
When to Visit
Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon provides the clearest light for viewing the city. During the rainy season, the trails can become slippery. This location is generally less crowded than the primary archaeological sites in the city center.
Nearby Attractions
Due to its proximity to the southern edge of the center, this site can be combined with other local landmarks. Nearby points of interest include:
- Muyu Urqu: 1.4km
- Convent of Santo Domingo: 2.6km
- Coricancha: 2.6km
- Basilica of La Merced, Cusco: 2.9km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors