I mean, you're criticizing a human way of thinking but then go on to argue for another human way of thinking.
No one has any idea what could motivate "aliens". With our current knowledge, we might not even be able to conceive the motivation of something that has mastery over matter, time and space.
I wouldn't draw a parallel to us and apes - an apt parallel would be examining the relationship between us and God/Allah/whatever deity you choose. I don't see a being with such capabilities to have their motivation relegated to the boundaries of the mundane world.
All this being said, you could be 100% correct. However, I personally think you're just offering another "what would humans do" hypothesis.