How to Visit Željava Air Base: A Complete Guide
Željava Air Base, a remarkable abandoned military complex near the Croatia-Bosnia border, is a top destination for history enthusiasts, urban explorers, and adventure seekers. The underground tunnels are entirely on the Croatian side, while three runways are in Croatia and two in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This guide provides detailed directions, practical tips, and options for a safe and memorable visit to Željava Air Base.
Historical Significance of Željava Air Base
Built during the Cold War, Željava Air Base was one of Europe’s largest underground military complexes, designed to withstand nuclear attacks. Operational until the 1990s, it housed fighter jets and played a key role in Yugoslav defense strategy. Today, its eerie tunnels and abandoned runways offer a unique glimpse into military history, making it a must-visit site in Croatia’s Lika region.
Getting to Željava Air Base from Ličko Petrovo Selo
To reach Željava Air Base, start from Ličko Petrovo Selo, a small village in Croatia. Follow these steps:
Locate the Turn for Željava Village: From Ličko Petrovo Selo, find the road opposite Hotel Lyra leading to Željava village.
Drive to the Douglas C-47 Dakota Junction: Follow the road for 3.5 km until you reach a junction with a Douglas C-47 Dakota airplane displayed on your right. This landmark confirms you’re on the correct route.
Choose Your Path to the Tunnels: From the Douglas C-47 Dakota junction, you have two options to reach the tunnels:
Option 3A: Via Runways 4, 1, and 3
Turn left (do not head toward the airplane) and drive 2 km.
At the junction, turn right to reach Runway 4.
Follow Runway 4 directly to the tunnel entrances.
Alternatively, after 500 m on Runway 4, turn left onto the service road to reach Runway 1. Follow Runway 1 to its end, then turn right onto the service road to access Runway 3. Following Runway 3 leads directly to tunnel entrances 1, 2, and 3.
Option 3B: Via Former Military Base Entrance/Village road
Take the road passing the airplane and turn left through the former military base entrance gates.
Drive 3 km to reach the runway intersection, where tunnel entrances 1, 2, and 3 are located on your right.
Tunnel entrance 4 is 750 meters further toward the Bosnia and Herzegovina border.
Guided Tours for a Safe and Enriched Experience
For a safer and more immersive exploration, consider joining a guided tour with Thrill quest. Our expert-led tours provide in-depth history, fascinating stories, and safe navigation through the underground tunnels, ensuring a memorable adventure. Perfect for those wanting a detailed and secure visit, Thrill quest’s tours are highly recommended for history lovers and thrill seekers.
Practical Tips for Visiting Željava Air Base
Documentation: Croatian border police may patrol near entrance 4, close to the Bosnia-Herzegovina border. Carry a valid photo ID (e.g., passport or driver’s license) to avoid issues. Entrances 1, 2, and 3 typically do not require documentation checks.
Safety Precautions: The abandoned tunnels can be dark and hazardous. Bring a flashlight, wear sturdy shoes, and explore cautiously. Avoid touching or disturbing any remnants.
Respect the Site: Željava is a historical landmark. Do not damage structures or leave litter to preserve it for future visitors.
Weather and Gear: The tunnels can be chilly so wear layered clothing. Once inside, weather doesn’t affect visit.
Accessibility: The roads to Željava are generally accessible by car.
FAQ
Can I visit the Željava Airbase without a guide?
Yes! It’s open and free for everyone to visit. If you choose to go on your own, look at the map at the bottom of the page.
Is it safe to visit the Željava Airbase without a guide?
It’s free and open for everyone to visit the airbase on their own. Visiting Željava airbase is generally safe. However, some areas may still have unexploded ordnance, so it’s crucial to stay within designated areas. As long as you don’t leave paved surfaces, you should be fine. Be careful of holes and metal debris on the ground in the tunnels. Bring a strong flashlight!
Why choose the tour?
A guided tour ensures you navigate safely through the dark tunnels. Knowing that you are in safe hands allows you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Guides offer in-depth knowledge about the airbase’s construction, its strategic importance during the Cold War, and its role in the Yugoslav Wars. This context enriches your visit and helps you understand the significance of what you’re seeing. Guides share personal anecdotes or stories from former personnel, providing a unique and personal perspective on the site’s history. Engaging with a knowledgeable guide allows you to ask questions and gain deeper insights, making the visit more interactive, educational, and enriching your overall understanding of the area.
What should I bring on the tour?
It can be cool inside the tunnels, so a long-sleeve shirt is advisable. Don’t forget your camera for photo opportunities.
Are there restroom facilities available at the airbase?
There are no restroom facilities available at the airbase itself. It’s recommended to use facilities before the tour starts.
When are the tours hosted?
The tours are hosted year-round, with two daily sessions at 10 AM and 4 PM. Please contact us for private tours or alternative times.
How large are the groups?
Groups typically range from a minimum of 2 people up to around 4-5 people. For groups larger than 15 people, advance notice is required. Tours with groups of 20 or more may be shorter due to limitations in thoroughly exploring each room.
Is the tour physically demanding?
No, the tour is not physically demanding. It takes place mostly on flat surfaces and is conducted at a slow pace, making it suitable for visitors of all fitness levels.
Are there any restrictions for the tour?
Yes, there are some restrictions for the tour. It is not suitable for young children or individuals suffering from claustrophobia due to the nature of the underground tunnels and enclosed spaces.
Is the tour safe in terms of respiratory health, radiation, dust, moisture, and mold?
There is no radiation present, but there may be dust, moisture, and mold. Generally, it is safe, especially for one-time visits. Face masks are available upon request.
What can you visit today near Zeljava Air Base?
Zeljava Air Base is one of the most fascinating abandoned military complexes in Europe and is quickly becoming a must-see tourist attraction. Located on the border between Croatia and Bosnia, this underground Yugoslav-era facility attracts history lovers, military architecture enthusiasts, and urbex explorers. A visit to Zeljava pairs perfectly with a trip to the world-famous Plitvice Lakes, the stunning Barać Caves, the historic Drežnik Old Town, and the charming city of Bihać on the Una River. It’s an ideal day or weekend trip for those seeking a unique blend of nature, culture, and history.
Choosing a guided tour for your visit to the Željava Airbase ensures a safer, more informative, and more enjoyable experience. It allows you to explore this fascinating historical site with confidence and gain insights that might be missed when exploring alone.
Maps of Zeljava airbase powered by Zeljava LYBI