The country was the economic success story of the 2000s. But declining natural gas production has lead to a downturn.
Now, fuel and food prices are soaring and Bolivian businesses are floundering. Inflation is around 15% - one of the highest rates in the region.
There are protests in the streets - so what could help this once prosperous country?
And will the upcoming general election change things?
Produced and presented by Jane Chambers
(Image: El Alto shoe salesman Fernando Gutierrez in his store. He says business is slow)