[1] It originates in the Tumuk Humak Mountains and forms the (disputed) border between France (region of French Guiana) and Suriname.

[2] There are two nature preserves located in the estuary region on the Surinamese side of the river, near the village of Galibi.

Czar Alexander III of Russia, acting as the arbitrator, decided that the Lawa was the headwater of the Maroni, and thus should be considered the border.

The Litani originates in the Tumuk Humak Mountains at approximately 2+1⁄2° N 55° W; along its path it is fed by Koele Koelebreek, the Lokereek, the Mapaonikreek and the Oelemari River.

In the 19th century, further excursions were made by Zegelaar, Jules Crevaux, Coudreau, Ten Kate, Joost and others.

From these arose the research of the Geologisch Mijnbouwkundige Dienst (GMD) and the Centraal Bureau voor Luchtkartering (CBL).