While there are plenty of remote spots for a getaway excursion into Mexico's rich biodiversity, there are few that offer better services and attractions than El Paraiso Eco-Resort near Tampico - an easy drive from the Texas border...
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On the banks of the San Rafeal river in the State of Tamaulipas sits a picturesque ranch that has been converted into an eco-resort, the perfect getaway to nature if you're into rugged beauty with few amenities like television, telephones, boom boxes and the Internet.
But you're going to have to work to get to this eco-paradise - no planes, no trains, no buses - which is probably just the way an eco-resort should be, right?
Near the Mexican town of Barra del Tordo, about four hours south of Brownsville, Texas, El Paraiso is a little hard to find if you don't watch the road signs carefully. At one point the signs direct you into what looks like a pasture. But what you find at the end of the road makes the trip well worth while.
 Be prepared to park your car in a secured designated area. And take everything you need with you because the car stays where it is, but your journey is just beginning. You'll be collected by resort staff who will water taxi you up the San Rafeal river in order to reach your final destination. This is probably your first look at the abundant wildlife of the region. The short boat ride gives you the chance to see eagles, ospreys, hawks, wild parrots, and egrets. At one time in the not-too-distant-past, this area was rich in native jaguars, and ranch hands will be quick to tell you some of the royal cats still remain.
Upon arrival at the resort, located high on a bluff overlooking the river, you might be disappointed at first that there is no fancy hotel. But you will be pleased with quaint accommodations that include private airconditioned palapas with comfortable beds and plenty of hot water. There's the "Big House" where you can take your meals, enjoy social interplay with other guests, and visit with the locals who are more than willing to direct you to points of interest across the 1,000 acre ranch resort.
 Once you settle in and fill your belly with wonderful local cuisine prepared by staff, you can choose from dozens of activities. The river is a great attraction. Kayaking offers a great opportunity to become a part of the natural wildlife, and a great way to enjoy some of the award-winning fishing available in both the river and the nearby Gulf of Mexico.
The staff will glady take you to some of the most unspoiled beaches of the Gulf coast, home and breeding ground for Scott-Ridley turtles. Play in the surf, enjoy surf fishing and sea kayaking, or snorkel a little known reef just offshore. Sport fisherman will enjoy superior salt water fishing for red snapper, snook, trout, flounder, red fish, tarpon, bonita (tuna), and shark. Freshwater bass fishing is also a favorite past time in the river and lagoons that dot the coastline.
 If you're into scuba diving, wait until you discover the deepest cenote (natural well) in Mexico, with a depth of just over 1,000 feet (depending on the time of year), one of the deepest natural water holes on earth (outside of the ocean).
Not far from your resort camp there is a cave to explore and there are several sulfur springs in the area that are said to have medicinal value. If you feel like staying in camp to relax, there are also clearwater swimming pools that are said to be some of the clearest in Mexico.
Another favorite activity is hiking or mountain biking. The resort provides 15 miles of trails for your enjoyment, a bird watcher's paradise.
CLOSEST AIRPORT: Tampico, 100 miles south
GETTING THERE
Barra del Tordo is 270 miles south of Brownsville, Texas, via Mexico 180. Bus service from Brownsville to Aldama (30 miles west of Barra) costs $26. Call ahead and someone from El Paraiso will meet you at the station.
WHERE TO STAY
A room in one of El Paraiso's palm-log cabins, arrayed around the swimming pool, costs $95 per person per night, meals and activities included (011-52-833-213-9956, www.spagetaway.com/ gulf/paraiso/paraiso.htm). The only in-town option is the spartan Hotel Playa Azul, a two-story, 14-room hotel next to the fishing docks (doubles, $35; 011-52-833-250-1272).
WHERE TO EAT
El Paraiso, for fresh sea bass garnished with cilantro, oysters in garlic broth, or whatever the chef has handy.
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