Zeljava Airbase: History and Adventure Tour/Plitvice
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the abandoned military complex of Zeljava Airbase with a local guide. Discover its strategic role during the Cold War and its connection to the fall of Yugoslavia. Wander through massive underground hangars as your guide shares personal stories and employee anecdotes — revealing how rising tensions and the outbreak of war divided colleagues of different nationalities. This tour offers a unique blend of history and adventure.
The tour takes place in all weather conditions because, in the tunnels, we are not affected by rain or high temperatures.
Available options
8am
12:30pm
4pm
10am
What's included
flashlight
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour will start in front of an abandoned airplane Douglas C-47 Skytrain or Dakota. This wonderful piece of aviation history welcomes curious visitors open-winged. We will use this rare opportunity to climb ON the airplane and explore inside.
We'll then proceed to the runways. As we drive cautiously on the endless runways, we'll try to imitate and imagine what it felt like for pilots to take off.
Driving across runways, we begin to catch views of a plane-shaped hole in the hill.
Reaching the entrance of the tunnels, we are in front of the highlight of the tour.
While checking the flashlights, we will get to know the basic information about the object and the safety rules that we need to follow.
During our 3-kilometer walk through dark tunnels, we will talk about construction, operational days and destruction of the base. We will cover personal stories and experiences of employees, relationships, and conflicts.
The tour will end back at the airplane.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
HR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
13 reviews
5★
13
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
62 reviews
5★
61
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers with fear of dark and narrow spaces
Meeting point
Meeting point is 20min drive from Rakovica. We will meet at the entrance of Zeljava airbase in front of airplane. Search in your navigation for ''Douglas C-47 Zeljava''
About Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning cascades, lakes, and dense forests. It offers a breathtaking natural landscape with vibrant colors, especially in the autumn, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Plitvice Lakes
A series of 16 interconnected terraced lakes with stunning waterfalls and cascades, surrounded by dense forests.
Nature
4-8 hours for a full exploration
Moderate (Entrance fee required)
Veliki Slap (Great Waterfall)
The highest waterfall in the park, with a drop of 78 meters (256 feet).
Nature
1-2 hours to reach from the nearest entrance
Included in park entrance fee
Lake Kozjak
The largest lake in the park, offering boat rides and beautiful views.
Nature
1-2 hours to explore
Boat ride included in entrance fee
Prošćansko Lake
A serene lake with a unique blue-green color, surrounded by lush vegetation.
Nature
1-2 hours to explore
Included in park entrance fee
Plitvice Lakes National Park Visitor Centers
Visitor centers provide maps, information, and facilities for park visitors.
Information
Varies
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ćevapi
Grilled minced meat sausages, typically served with flatbread and onions.
Main Dish
Contains meat
Peka
A slow-cooked dish of meat and vegetables cooked under a bell-like lid.
Main Dish
Contains meat
Plitvice Lakes Trout
Freshly caught trout from the park's lakes, often grilled or fried.
Main Dish
Contains fish
Kremsnita
A traditional Croatian cream cake with a layer of custard cream and whipped cream.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Popular Activities
Hiking
Ziplining
Canyoning
Boat rides
Swimming
Picnicking
Visiting local museums
Exploring traditional villages
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and lush greenery. However, it can be crowded, and prices for accommodation and services are higher.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Croatian
- Widely spoken: English, German, Italian
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Croatian Kuna (HRK)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Plitvice Lakes National Park is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use reputable taxi services or negotiate fares in advance
Getting there
By air
- Zagreb Airport • 140 km (87 miles)
- Zadar Airport • 150 km (93 miles)
By train
Plitvice Lakes Railway Station
By bus
Zagreb, Zadar, Karlovac
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are available from nearby towns and cities to the park's entrances.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Entrance 1 (Sjeverni ulaz)
Entrance 2 (Jezerce)
Mukikapski Prolaz
Day trips
Rastoke
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day
A picturesque waterfall village known for its traditional water mills and natural beauty.
Zagreb
140 km (87 miles) • Full day
Croatia's capital city offers a mix of history, culture, and modern attractions.
Zadar
150 km (93 miles) • Full day
A historic coastal city with a rich cultural heritage and beautiful beaches.
Festivals
Plitvice Lakes National Park Summer Festival • July to August
Christmas in Plitvice • December
Pro tips
- Start your visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the park's beauty in peace.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a map or use the park's app for navigation.
- Carry a reusable water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your hike.
- Visit the park in the autumn for stunning foliage and vibrant colors.
- Consider staying in a nearby town or village for a more authentic and affordable experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
