Abstract: Based on a comprehensive analysis of source rock distribution, reservoir characteristics, cap rock characteristics and trap types in typical hydrocarbon basins in North Africa, this paper summarizes the basic characteristics of reservoir-cap assemblages in the region. The study indicates that source rock of reservoir-cap assemblages in North Africa is fairly homogenerous, mainly the Lower Silurian and Middle-Upper Devonian “hot” shale, distributed in large areas with huge sourcing potential. All Paleozoic sandstone is reservoir in various hydrocarbon basins. It is mainly the reservoir of Ordovician System and Devonian System. However, the reservoirs in different regions have different characteristics. Triassic reservoirs are distributed in large areas in Ghadames Basin. The main cap rock is Lower Silurian and Upper Devonian shale while the secondary cap rock is Carboniferous and Lower Devonian shale and carbonate rock, with development of structural traps, stratigraphic traps and structural-stratigraphic compound traps. Different traps shaped different oil and gas reservoirs. There are three main patterns for oil and gas migration in the study zone, mainly the horizontally long-distance or short distance migration. Following analysis of the characteristics of reservoir-cap assemblages in Paleozoic hydrocarbon basins in North Africa, it is assumed that Ghadames Basin is richest in remaining oil and gas reserves and matched with desirable reservoir-cap assemblages. Thanks to a variety of traps, advantageous reservoir conditions and a low level of exploration and development, Ghadames Basin has the greatest potential for exploration in Paleozoic hydrocarbon basins in North Africa.