Team Survivor begins with the ritual of the tribal council, where each group creates a unique tribal identity to set their team apart. Using building materials including colorful water-based body paints and an assortment of props, each team must create a tribal name, flag and tribal chant representing the values and power symbols most important to them.

Teams are now ready to advance to the Power Idol challenges. Teams compete for Power Idols in a series of adventurous problem solving elements designed to challenge them mentally and push the limits of their creativity and team building skills. Individual fitness level is not necessarily the key to winning; rather, ingenuity, risk-taking and relying on the resources of tribal members will lead to success. Winning teams are rewarded with Power Idols, tools or other useful items that can help boost their chances of success on later activities. The more difficult the challenge, the more valuable the reward.