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.

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!

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.

It can be cool inside the tunnels, so a long-sleeve shirt is advisable. Don’t forget your camera for photo opportunities.

There are no restroom facilities available at the airbase itself. It’s recommended to use facilities before the tour starts.

The tours are hosted year-round, with four daily sessions at 08AM, 10AM, 12:30PM and 4 PM. Please contact us for private tours or alternative times.

Groups typically range from a minimum of 2 people up to around 4-5 people. For groups larger than 10 people, advance notice is required. Tours with groups of 20 or more may be shorter due to limitations in thoroughly exploring each room.

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.

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.

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.

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.

To reach Željava Air Base, start from Ličko Petrovo Selo, a small village in Croatia. Follow these steps:

1. Locate the Turn for Željava Village: From Ličko Petrovo Selo, find the road opposite Hotel Lyra leading to Željava village.

2. 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.

3. 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.

• 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 are dark and hazardous. Bring a flashlight, wear sturdy shoes, and explore cautiously.

• 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.

No, there is no permanent lighting inside the tunnels of Željava Air Base. The recently seen lights were part of a short-term experiment conducted by enthusiasts from the Željava LYBI group, who illuminated parts of the tunnels for a few hours. You can read more about this project at the following link: "A Brief Return of Light to the Tunnels of Željava"