Can someone who has seen these gorillas in Uganda let me know your real opinion --- is one hour watching these animals worth $500?

Definitely. I would go again in a second--maybe even trek for two days. (Once you have invested the time and money to get there, you might as well do it right.)
Chimp trekking costs much less, but is not as good of a value in my opinion.
Peace,
BB

I must get to see them one day. I must, I must , I must! So many musts and so little time.
Gidday to you both, Brian and kel.

From Uganda, yes would do it again in a heartbeat. Like Big bri, would have gone two days and tracked two different troops if I'd have known it could be done. Amazing animals that may not be around for the next generation..