Hello from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

I was planning to go to Florida this April to Florida's Birding & Photo Fest.

Last year at the website it seems the dates were from April 18-21st.
It seems it changed to April 30 - May 4, 2014.
Can anyone confirm that ? The new dates are out of my trip.

Anyway I will arrive April 7 or 8. Until Friday (April,11) I will be by myself
and I would like to know Florida's nature and birds.
Researching this forum I made the following list.
As the days are few, I'd like to know what would you suggest to visit.
Hotels near the places would be best (instead of staying in Orlando and having to drive around 1 hour at least).
I will rent a car at the airport. Let me know if I need a 4wd or a compact car is fine.

Here is the list.
1. Gatorland
2. Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland
3. Fort Desoto Park
3.1 North Beach
3.2 East Beach
3.3 Gulf Pier
4. Merritt Island
5. Viera Wetlands
Alligator Farm ? Is it Gatorland ?

I still haven't booked the hotel so feel free to suggest the best places
for this "birding mini-trip".

I will bring the Canon 7D or 6D. Thinking of buying the new Tamron 150-600 for this week.
Or maybe renting some 500 or 600mm. Suggestions are welcomed.
Best times of the day to visit each of the places are appreciated. As well recommended focal lengths for each place.
Since I'll be joining my family later, I don't intend to bring a lot of photo gear.
- 1 camera + 3 lenses max.
- flash 600ex
- Tripod + ballhead

Camera kit will be one or the other.
Canon 6d + 24-105 + 70-300/IS + Tamron 150-600 or rentals.
Canon 7d + 10-22 + 17-50/OS 2.8 + Tamron 150-600 or rentals.

Thank you.