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Željava Air Base
Yougoslavia military TOP secret
Guided tour
Discover Željava Air Base – Europe’s Largest Underground Military Airport
Željava Air Base, also known as Objekt 505, is an abandoned underground military airport built during the Cold War era. Located on the border between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, near Plitvice Lakes National Park, Željava is one of the most mysterious and impressive remnants of Yugoslavia’s military past. Constructed between 1957 and 1970, Željava Air Base was designed to withstand a nuclear attack and serve as a top-secret command center for the Yugoslav Air Force.
The base featured 3.5 kilometers of underground tunnels, protected by steel blast doors, housing fighter jets, personnel quarters, communication systems, and even a power plant.
Its strategic location allowed for rapid deployment of MiG-21 fighter jets across the Balkans. The base could accommodate up to 80 aircraft and included five runways, one of which is still visible and accessible today.
That’s where a certified local tour guide makes all the difference.
What Can You See ?
Although abandoned and partially destroyed during the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s, Željava Air Base remains a fascinating site for urban explorers, history lovers, and photographers. Today, visitors can:
Explore the massive underground tunnels (partly open and safe with a guide)
Walk along the main runway, often used for filming and photoshoots
Learn about Cold War history and military engineering
Discover eerie remnants of Yugoslav military technology
Visit the famous Douglas C-47 “Dakota” plane wreck, left near the entrance
Why should I book a guided tour of Željava Air Base?
Željava is located in a former military zone near an international border. Some areas may still be unstable or unsafe for unaccompanied visitors. Local guides know exactly which parts are safe and how to explore the site responsibly.
Certain parts of the underground complex or tunnels may only be accessible with a licensed guide. They have the knowledge and permission to take you deeper into the site than you could go on your own.
A guide will provide rich background stories, historical context, and Cold War secrets that you won’t find on signs or online. Learn how the base functioned, who used it, and why it was destroyed.
With a guide, you’ll visit the most photogenic and dramatic parts of the site at the right time and angle — from the abandoned runways to the eerie tunnel entrances.
By booking a guided tour, you’re directly supporting local guides and helping preserve this unique historical site through responsible tourism.
Find your Guide
Antonio Hodak
freelance guide
HR / ENG
Private & Groups tours
DESTINATION
Željava air base
antonio@gmail.com
+385998403536
mobile / whatsapp/ viber
Free booking. No hidden fees. No commission.
How to Visit Željava Air Base?
The safest and most informative way to visit Željava is by joining a guided tour with a local expert. These tours are available from nearby towns like Plitvice, Korenica, or Bihać, and include:
Guided exploration of tunnels and external structures
Historical background and stories from the Cold War period
Safety instructions and responsible exploration
Optional transfers from nearby accommodations
Photo stops included
Hand lamp
Runs in all weather 365 days
Duration
2 hours
Activity Level
Easy / Moderate / Active
Suitable for
Families, Couples, Seniors, Solo Travelers, Groups
Route Type
Base, Tunnels, Runway Douglas C47, Full Circle
Transport
Walking, Driving
All about
bookings, prices, time, T&C, more details etc. contact our guides.
- NO Fees
- NO Comissions
- FREE Booking
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