First Car Rental Expands to Namibia and the Cape Winelands

In April, First Car Rental marked a significant milestone by opening five new branches – four in Namibia and one in the scenic town of Paarl in the Western Cape. This move strengthens the company’s growing footprint beyond South Africa, adding to its existing international operations in Mauritius, Malta, and Tanzania.

With new outlets in Windhoek, Walvis Bay, and Paarl, First Car Rental is now even better positioned to serve travellers exploring southern Africa’s most celebrated destinations. Whether you’re landing in Namibia’s arid landscapes or embarking on a leisurely wine-country escape, these new locations offer convenience, flexibility, and trusted car hire services.

A Long-Standing Partnership: Drive South Africa and First Car Rental

One of our most valued partners in this mission is First Car Rental | Photo: First Car Rental

At Drive South Africa, we take pride in connecting travellers with reliable, competitively priced vehicle rental solutions. One of our most valued partners in this mission is First Car Rental – a trusted name in the South African car hire industry.

For over a decade, we’ve worked closely with First to ensure customers benefit from dependable service, an expansive branch network and well-maintained vehicles suited to both city and off-the-beaten-track driving. From hatchbacks and SUVs to rugged 4x4s, First’s fleet caters to a wide range of travel needs, and its consistent rollout of new locations reflects the brand’s commitment to convenience and accessibility.

These newly launched branches are fully integrated into our booking platform, allowing travellers to hire vehicles at competitive rates while enjoying Drive South Africa’s expert support and flexible booking options.

First Car Rental’s New Namibia Locations

First Car Rental has opened four new branches in Namibia | Photo: Birger Strahl via Unsplash

Namibia is a land of stark beauty and wide-open spaces, and self-drive travel remains one of the most rewarding ways to explore it. First Car Rental has opened four new branches in Namibia, making it easier for visitors to pick up a vehicle and head straight into adventure.

New Branches in Namibia:

• Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport Hours: Mon-Sun, 05h00-22h00. A convenient pickup point for travellers flying into Namibia’s capital.
• Windhoek Downtown (Off-Airport) Hours: Mon-Fri, 08h00-17h00 | Sat-Sun: Closed. Serviced by a meet-and-greet transfer from the airport, just minutes away.
• Walvis Bay International Airport Hours: Mon-Sun, 05h00-22h00. Ideal for coastal travellers and access to Swakopmund and the Skeleton Coast.
• Walvis Bay Downtown (136 6th Street, J and B Park) Hours: Mon-Fri, 08h00-17h00 | Sat-Sun: Closed

All off-airport locations offer meet-and-greet services for pre-booked reservations, ensuring a smooth and efficient rental experience. With a fleet suited to Namibia’s unique road conditions – ranging from tar to gravel – First Car Rental equips travellers for anything from national park tours to long-distance desert drives.

First Car Rental Arrives in Paarl, Cape Winelands

First Car Rental has added a new branch at 1 Hackwill Crescent in Paarl Junction | Photo: Tim Mossholder via Unsplash

In South Africa, First Car Rental has added a new branch at 1 Hackwill Crescent in Paarl Junction, a central location that serves leisure, replacement, and corporate rentals. Paarl, nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is known for its mountainous scenery, historical charm and world-class wine estates.

Paarl Branch Details:

• Operating Hours: Mon-Fri, 08h00-17h00 | Sat-Sun: Closed
• Features: Show & Go check-outs (12 seconds), new-model cars, and convenient access to popular wine routes.

The Paarl branch brings First’s distinctive purple branding and quality service to a region perfectly suited for road trips, wine tastings, and mountain escapes.

Road Trip Ideas in the Cape Winelands

With a First Car Rental vehicle in Paarl, you might as well go on a road trip | Photo: Roland Luthi via Unsplash

With a vehicle from First Car Rental in Paarl, you’re perfectly positioned to explore some of the Western Cape’s finest driving routes. Here are three road trip ideas to inspire your next journey:

1. Paarl to Franschhoek via the R301 and Helshoogte Pass

A scenic route winding through mountain passes, fruit orchards, and vineyards. Stop at Boschendal for a picnic or wine tasting before heading into Franschhoek for art galleries, restaurants, and boutique wine farms.

2. Paarl to Stellenbosch via Klapmuts and the Bottelary Hills

Discover boutique wineries like Warwick and Delheim along this less-travelled route. The region offers tranquil countryside views and a chance to taste lesser-known but outstanding Cape wines.

3. Paarl to Wellington and Bainskloof Pass

Venture north to Wellington, then take the historic Bainskloof Pass through the Limietberg Mountains. It’s a narrow, winding road steeped in history, ideal for those who love mountain drives.

Road Trip Ideas in Namibia

Namibia offers first-class road trip experiences | Photo: Amar Hussain via Unsplash

Whether you collect your vehicle in Windhoek or Walvis Bay, Namibia offers unmatched landscapes and wildlife experiences. Here are three routes to consider:

1. Windhoek to Sossusvlei (via Solitaire)

Head southwest from the capital into the Namib-Naukluft National Park. This journey takes you past iconic desert scenery, red dunes, and petrified trees in Deadvlei. Stop in Solitaire for a slice of famous apple pie and fuel before hitting the gravel roads.

2. Walvis Bay to Swakopmund and Spitzkoppe

A short coastal drive from Walvis Bay takes you to Swakopmund, Namibia’s adventure capital. Continue inland to Spitzkoppe, a dramatic granite outcrop often called the “Matterhorn of Namibia”. Ideal for stargazing and camping.

3. Windhoek to Etosha National Park

A longer trip north, but well worth it for the wildlife. Self-drive safaris in Etosha allow you to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos at waterholes throughout the park. Stay at one of the rest camps and explore at your own pace.

Booking with Drive South Africa

First Car Rental’s expansion into Namibia and Paarl opens new possibilities for travellers looking to explore Southern Africa by road | Photo: Eelco Bohtlingk via Unsplash

All new First Car Rental locations in Namibia and Paarl are available for booking through the Drive South Africa platform. We make it easy to compare rates, select your preferred vehicle, and secure your rental – all with transparent policies and no hidden costs.

Whether you’re planning a leisurely Cape Winelands tour or a rugged desert adventure in Namibia, our partnership with First Car Rental ensures you’re backed by reliable service and local support.

First Car Rental’s expansion into Namibia and Paarl opens new possibilities for travellers looking to explore Southern Africa by road. With flexible pickup options, well-equipped vehicles, and a strong customer service ethos, First continues to support unforgettable travel experiences.

Through Drive South Africa, these services are just a few clicks away – so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying the open road. Ready to find your ideal rental car? Simply use the nifty search tool at the top of the page!