This workshop focussed on developing a better understanding of the species and habitats of dry forests and the interaction between dry forest biodiversity and its people. It brought together experts and researchers from the UK and Latin America with shared interests in dry forest biodiversity and sustainable management practices for rural communities. The workshop was led by a joint UK-Peru team with a recognised track record of biodiversity research and capacity building, including South American students successfully trained at doctoral and master's levels, publishing collaborative research in scientific journals, and experience in conservation and development projects in the region. Together, they exchanged knowledge and experiences of the common ecosystem and biodiversity issues across dry forest regions (e.g. from Colombia, Peru, Argentina) and forged a new roadmap that identifies the priority research areas relevant for sustainable management, match capacity building needs and opportunities, and identify key stakeholders. A jointly agreed programme of work produced by all participants outlined potential sources of funding for the longer-term sustainability of new research partnerships centred on exchange and research visits, and mentoring of a new generation of career-young Latin American researchers.