Route Query: US south to Bahia, Brazil (east or west coast of SA?)

[Peregrine40]

Hello friends,

In several weeks I depart from the US to Brazil. Destination near Porto Seguro; Bahia. My first bike trip to the area. A dream come true.

Seeking input from experienced riders concerning routing when i reach South America. I'll boat it from Panama to Columbia. From there either, a; head SW towards Ecuador and come into Brazil from either Peru or Bolivia, or b; head east through Venezuela, down to Manaus and boat it to Belem, then down the coast of Brazil.

For the former route questions include the road conditions across the Amazon on RT 364 out of Peru from March to May, relative timing, safety and relative ease of travel. I will not be continuing anymore southward than Brazil on this trip, so continuing down on the Pan-American is not in the cards.

For the latter route particular questions include relative ease of travel and safety through Venezuela down to Manaus, timing/costs and logistics of boat to Belem, and timing of the entire route . . .. from March to May.

Any experiences or input would be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance,

P40