[3] The confluence of the Tshuapa and Lomela rivers is in the heart of the central depression of the Congo Basin.

Permanent swamp forest stretches for 156 kilometres (97 mi) along the Tshuapa, with an area of 160,000 hectares (400,000 acres) between 20°33'E and 22°00'E.

[4] The Tshuapa has a navigable length of 825 kilometres (513 mi) from its confluence with the Lomela up to the terminus at Elinga-Mpango.

[3] The section of the river from its mouth up to Ikela, at 555 kilometres (345 mi) can be navigated all year round by 350 ton barges, although a few tight bends must be negotiated.

From Ikela up to Bondo at 696 kilometres (432 mi) it can carry 40 ton barges all year round.