If you’re the kind of traveler who loves uncovering forgotten stories, exploring mysterious sites, or just seeking a bit of adrenaline, the Zeljava Airbase tour might be just what you’re looking for. This experience offers a chance to step inside a sprawling Cold War-era military complex, full of tunnels, underground hangars, and history that’s both fascinating and a little eerie.
What really caught our eye—and what reviews repeatedly praise—is the knowledgeable guides who bring the old military installations to life with personal stories and technical insights. Plus, the stunning views of the runways and the iconic plane-shaped hole in the hill make it a memorable visual experience. On the flip side, a key consideration is that parts of the tour involve dark, narrow spaces, so it’s not suitable if you’re uncomfortable in confined or dim environments.
This tour suits history buffs, urban explorers, or anyone craving something different from the usual sightseeing. It’s particularly appealing if you want a unique, hands-on experience that combines storytelling, adventure, and a peek into Cold War secrets. If you’re comfortable with a 2-hour journey through tunnels and underground spaces, this could be a highlight of your Croatian trip.
Key Points
- Authentic historical experience with a knowledgeable local guide
- Exploration of underground tunnels and massive hangars—a real adventure
- Great value at $59.95 for a two-hour guided tour
- All-weather activity—tunnels are unaffected by rain or heat
- Limited group size of up to 15 travelers for a more intimate experience
- Includes a flashlight to navigate the underground spaces safely
What is the Zeljava Airbase Tour Anyway?
This tour takes you into one of the most impressive abandoned military sites in Croatia—Zeljava Airbase. Located near Plitvice Lakes National Park, this complex was a strategic Cold War asset for Yugoslavia. Today, it’s a sprawling, mostly deserted space that’s open for curious explorers willing to venture underground.
The tour is built around a local guide who not only shares historical facts but also personal anecdotes that help paint a vivid picture of what life was like here during its operational days. The focus is on the underground tunnels and hangars, which are massive, dark, and filled with history. It’s a mix of educational storytelling and physical exploration.
Planning more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
Starting at the Plane
Your adventure begins in front of an abandoned Douglas C-47 Skytrain aircraft, a piece of aviation history that’s right there for you to climb on and explore from the inside. This is a real highlight—the chance to get up close and even step inside a historic plane. As many reviews mention, this is a rare opportunity, and it adds a memorable touch to the tour.
Driving on the Runways
After inspecting the aircraft, you’ll hop into a vehicle to motor across the vast, empty runways. This part feels like a scene from a movie—endless tarmac stretching into the distance. The guide will encourage you to imagine what it must have been like for pilots taking off or landing here back in the day.
Approaching the Entrance
Soon, you’ll see the iconic plane-shaped hole in the hill—the entrance to the underground tunnels. This is the main attraction and where the real adventure begins. Once there, you’ll be handed flashlights and briefed on safety and basic rules, making sure everyone feels comfortable before heading into the darkness.
Exploring the Tunnels
Inside, you’ll wander through a labyrinth of tunnels, underground hangars, and narrow spaces. As you go, your guide shares insights about the complex’s strategic role during the Cold War and its relation to Yugoslavia’s fall. The tunnels are quite large but dark, so a flashlight is essential—and included in the tour.
What You’ll Love About the Experience
One of the most praised aspects is how engaging the guides are. Reviewers like Pinguino_K and Maxwell_M rave about Antonio, who weaves history with personal stories that make the experience more immersive. His fluent English and local knowledge seem to enhance the authenticity and safety of the tour, making it accessible for international visitors.
The visual aspect is also something to note. The vast underground spaces, the relics of military life, and the views of the open runways create a surreal atmosphere. Reviewers mention the “incredible space” to explore and how the tour feels like a mix of history lesson and urban exploration.
The Personal Touch
Many reviews highlight how the guide’s storytelling brings history to life. Antonio shares anecdotes about neighbors, wartime experiences, and the personalities behind the scenes, which elevate the tour from just a walk through old tunnels to a genuine insight into Cold War tensions and Yugoslav history.
Practical Details and Value
The tour runs for about two hours, which is enough to explore thoroughly without feeling rushed. The price point—$59.95 per person—offers reasonable value considering the unique access and guided storytelling. The inclusion of a flashlight is practical, as the tunnels are dark, and safety is a priority.
It’s worth noting that private transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way here, but given the remote location, this is typical. The small group size (max 15 people) helps keep the tour intimate and allows plenty of space for questions or spontaneous exploration.
Downsides and Considerations
While most reviews are glowing, it’s important to remember that the tunnels are dark and narrow. If you’re uncomfortable in confined spaces or have claustrophobia, this might not be for you. Also, since the tour takes place underground, it’s not suited for anyone with a fear of the dark or high temperatures, although the tunnels tend to be climate-controlled.
Some might find this experience a bit physically demanding—walking through tunnels and navigating uneven surfaces—so good footwear and a warm outfit are recommended, especially since some reviews advise dressing warmly due to the cool interior temperature.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, urban explorers, or travelers looking for something off the beaten path. If you enjoy stories about Cold War era military sites, or if you’re looking for a mix of education and adventure, you’ll probably find this captivating.
It’s also suitable for those who appreciate guided tours that combine storytelling with hands-on exploration. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, a partner, or even alone but with a sense of adventure, this tour offers a memorable two hours. However, if you’re not comfortable in dark, enclosed spaces, this might not be your best choice.
The Sum Up: Who Should Book?
If you’re seeking an original experience that combines history, adventure, and a dash of mystery, the Zeljava Airbase tour is worth considering. The expert guide and carefully curated route turn a potentially eerie site into an engaging story of Cold War tensions and Yugoslav resilience. It’s a fantastic pick for those with a curious mind and a sense of adventure.
On the other hand, if you prefer outdoor, sunlit sightseeing or are uneasy in tunnels, you might want to pass or choose a different type of tour. Still, for most travelers craving something different and memorable, this tour offers great value at a reasonable price.
This experience shines in its authentic storytelling, the stunning visuals, and the exclusive access to a place most people only see in photos. It’s a great way to add a historical twist to your Croatian trip that you’ll be talking about long after.
Zeljava Airbase: History and Adventure Tour
“This was one of the highlights of our trip! Antonio is a fantastic guide, weaving together history, adventure, and personal stories in the trek thr…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It depends on the child. Since the tunnels are dark and narrow, it’s not recommended for kids who are uncomfortable with confined spaces or sensitive to darkness. Always consider your child’s comfort level before booking.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to explore the tunnels and hear stories without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the tour?
You’ll receive a flashlight to navigate the underground spaces safely. The tour is guided, with a local expert leading the way.
Is transportation included?
No, private transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the site, which is located near Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This makes planning more flexible if your plans change.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially if you tend to get cold easily. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a good idea since you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces.
Is the tour affected by weather?
No, since the main exploration happens in tunnels, weather conditions like rain or heat won’t affect your underground adventure.
If you’re craving a glimpse into Cold War history wrapped in a thrilling underground adventure, this tour deserves a spot on your Croatia itinerary. It’s a chance to explore with expert guides, see an iconic aircraft, and stroll through tunnels rich with stories—an experience that’s both fun and educational.
