Port Loko is a city located in the North West region of Sierra Leone. It serves as the capital of both the Port Loko District and the North West Province, a status it has held since 2017. The city is situated approximately 57 kilometers (35 miles) northeast of the national capital, Freetown.
The area surrounding Port Loko is recognized as a significant center for trade and bauxite mining. Geographically, the town sits along the primary highway connecting Freetown to Conakry, the capital of Guinea. It also lies on the overland route between Freetown and Lungi International Airport, though most travelers typically utilize ferry or helicopter services for that specific journey.
Demographic data indicates a growing population in the area; the city recorded 21,961 residents in the 2004 census, with current estimates placing the population at approximately 44,900.