US Border Patrol agents in Arizona said they have rescued a six-year-old Costa Rican boy who was abandoned by a smuggler in the desert.

Ajo Station agents said they found the boy on Tuesday just north of the Mexican border, west of Lukeville.

He told agents he was on his way to see his mother in the United States and that his uncle had dropped him off without any food or water.

Ajo Station agents said they found the boy on Tuesday just north of the Mexican border, west of Lukeville. Pictured: An Arizona border agent in a file image

The uncle told him that US border agents would pick him up.

Border Patrol officials said the boy was in good condition and transported to a Tucson center for further processing.

The name of the boy, who was taken to Tucson, was not immediately released.

In a statement, US Customs and Border Protection explained: 'This incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants at the hands of smugglers.

'Children in particular are extremely vulnerable, not only to exploitation, but also to the elements in the environment.

In a statement, US Customs and Border Protection explained: 'This incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants at the hands of smugglers.' Pictured: Part of the US-Mexico border in Arizona

'Arizona’s desert is a merciless environment for those unprepared for its remote, harsh terrain and unpredictable weather.

'The Border Patrol advises anyone in distress to call 9-1-1 or activate a rescue beacon as soon as possible.'